Work

All the work, whether manual, artistic or intellectual, is done within the Enclosure. Apart from the work of worship, prayer and intercession, maintaining the house, garden and grounds occupies time and energy.. Other work undertaken by the sisters includes writing for a variety of publications; providing retreats and quiet days; and dealing with a large postal apostolate. A wide selection of greeting cards is also produced. Some of these are hand-lettered or hand-painted, and some are printed in the Community’s Print Room.

Saint Benedict says in his Holy Rule:

‘Then are they truly monks, when they live by the labour of their hands, as did our fathers and the Apostles.’

‘Then are they truly monks, when they live by the labour of their hands, as did our fathers and the Apostles.’

‘On arising for the Work of God they will quietly encourage one another, for the sleepy like to make excuses. ‘

‘Let everyone receive help as the size of the Monastery and local conditions warrant.’

‘Let the abbot strive to be loved rather than feared. He must so arrange things that the strong have something to yearn for and the weak nothing to run from.’