After the successful completion of an observer period, a woman is invited into the postulancy where she “tries on” the life of an Erie Benedictine. In a ceremony that takes place at the front door of the monastery, the community gathers to welcome the postulant. In response to the prioress’ question, “What is it you seek?" the postulant responds: “I seek to live the monastic way of life within this community as I continue my journey to God.”
In consistent dialogue with her mentor, in the midst of study and prayer, and in the daily life of the community, a postulant determines whether she is called to seek God with this particular Benedictine community.
Studies during the postulant year include an introduction to St. Benedict, prayer and lectio, Christology and the liturgical practices of the community. The postulant meets twice a month with her mentor. At the conclusion of the postulancy, a woman may request to enter the novitiate.
A typical day in the life of a postulant at Mount St. Benedict Monastery:
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6:00
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a.m. | Rise. |
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6:30
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a.m. | Morning praise with the community. |
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7:00
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a.m. | Breakfast. |
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8:35
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a.m. | Leave in a carpool for ministry in the city. Throughout the year, the postulant will work in community ministries to grow in understanding of the work of the community. Some work may be in the city, some at the monastery. The work week is 32 hours for the postulant to allow extra time for personal reflection, prayer, reading and study. |
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4:30
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p.m. | Return with the carpool to the monastery. |
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5:00
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p.m. | Community lectio. |
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5:30
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p.m. | Evening praise with the community. |
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6:00
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p.m. | Evening meal with the community. |
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7:00
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p.m. | Personal time to relax with community members, go for a walk, read. Another evening, meet with her mentor, attend a meeting, exercise or practice music or a craft. |