The clothing ceremony begins with the Postulant requesting “the mercy of God and of the Order.” In Response the Abbot offers his exhortation to the candidate about to assume the responsibilities of the Novitiate. This morning Abbot Robert Barnes exhorted Br. Aelred Joseph: You have asked for mercy, the mercy of God and of the Order. You […]
Solemnity of St. Joseph, 19 March, 2014
The community Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Abbot Robert Barnes presiding and preaching. It is a non-work day and we follow the Sunday schedule with Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament following Vespers (5:30 PM). Why all the festivities in Lent? This morning after Lauds (7:00 AM) Abbot Robert will clothe Postulant Aelred […]
MIW closed with waiting list
We now have a waiting list for the March MIW. Please let me know if you would like to be placed on that list in case we have cancellations. Kurt@virginiatrappists.org
Why Monastic Immersion?
Occasionally I am asked about this thing we call monastic immersion here at Holy Cross Abbey. Seldom does someone ask because they are ‘against it’ or question its validity; it’s more that people want to hear why people WANT to be immersed in monasticism? What is it about monasteries and the Rule of St. Benedict […]
Homily for the 1st Sunday of Lent, 9 March, 2014
Readings: Genesis 2:7-9;3:1-7: Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 4:1-11 What are these three temptations? Do they confront the personality of Jesus or are they addressed to his mission? And what about us? If we are members of Christ, what might these temptations say to us? Over the years I continue to find deeper dimensions to these temptations. […]
Lenten Reading
Most of you are probably aware of the custom of Lenten Reading recommended by St. Benedict’s Rule for monasteries. We read in Chapter 48 of the Rule: …in these days of Lent they shall each receive a book from the library, which they shall read straight through from the beginning. These books are given out at […]
1st Sunday of Lent, 9 March, 2014
The community Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Fr. James presiding sand preaching.
March Monastic Immersion Weekend has spots open
We have had a couple of cancellations so there are spots available for the MIW March 28-30 for men and women. If you have ever wanted to live in monastic community, here’s your chance. For information or to reserve the spot send email to kurt@virginiatrappists.org Info on the MIW is on the home page under […]
Ash Wednesday, 5 March, 2014
The community Mass with the distribution of ashes will be celebrated at 7:00 AM in place of Lauds. Abbot Robert Barnes will preside.
A Word from the Cistercian Fathers for March
Mercy has welcomed you kindly, revived you with loving-kindness. Fear the judgment, lest the grace given to you in your humility be taken away from you in your pride. You have chosen to be of little account in the house of your Father; you were content to become as one of the hired servants. Remain […]