We are still in the process of getting our livestream up and running again. This has involved changing our livestream from “Twitch” to Youtube. The link on our website still takes you to Twitch, however, and so, for the present, the Youtube livestream can be accessed by clicking on this link: https://www.youtube.com/@VATrappists

We are, at present, experiencing problems with livestreaming our services and masses. We apologize for this interruption in this important service to the public, and are working at resolving the issues as speedily as possible.

For everything earthly is uncertain and perishable.  Our homeland is in heaven, and we are not afraid of falling or being thrown down.  The rock, with its durability and security, is in heaven.  “The rock is a refuge for the hedgehog.”  And really where is there safe sure rest for the weak except in the […]

You fear the Lord of the angels, but love the little Child.  You fear the Lord of majesty, but love the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes.  You fear Him reigning in heaven, but love Him lying in the manger.  But what sign did the shepherds receive?  You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and […]

For those wishing to join us in celebrating the Christmas liturgies, here are the times for Masses: Christmas Vigil and “Midnight Mass” Wednesday evening, December 24, at 8.30 p.m. Christmas Day Mass Thursday morning, December 25 at 10.00 a.m.

“Prepare a way for the Lord.” Brethren, we prepare the way of the Lord as we are bidden to do by walking along it; and we can walk along it only by preparing it.  However far you journey along it, the way is always waiting to be prepared, so that you must start afresh from […]

Due to an unforeseen cancellation, the following dates at the Retreat House have become available:              January 19-23, 2026 – Monday-Friday Retreat             January 23-25, 2026 – Friday –Sunday Retreat             The two may be combined if desired

As in past years, our fruitcakes are selling quickly and will soon be all gone. In order to meet the high demand, our monks have devoted their time to baking extra fruitcakes. This means that our much-loved Chocolate-covered Fruitcake Slices—though dearly hoped for—will not be available this Christmas season. They are especially labor-intensive, and with […]

Let us honor Mary, …. since she knows the course and outcome of all miseries, she soothes our fears, she awakens our faith, strengthens our hope, drives away our cowardice, and encourages us when we are timid.  You fear to approach the Father?  Terrified by the mere sound of his voice, you flee to the […]