Monasticism and mission

Monasticism and Mission

At first glance, it may appear that a monastic vocation means turning one’s back on the course of this world and the challenges of ordinary society. In reality, no monastic community would accept an applicant who wanted merely to escape from this world. A person under monastic vows has committed to living a life consecrated to the praise and worship of God. In addition, the vocation includes participating in the fruitful fellowship and responsibilities of community life, as well as praying for, and sometimes ministering with, those most in need of divine grace and mercy.

Historically, many monastic communities have been among the leaders in missionary work. Beginning in the sixth century, Irish monks founded monasteries not only throughout Scotland and England, but also as far as modern-day Austria and Italy; everywhere they went, they proclaimed the Gospel. Saint Boniface led a group of monks to bring the Good News to the German tribes. Other vowed orders, such as Franciscans and Jesuits, were among the first missionaries to the Americas and Japan.

While not all monks and nuns are on the front lines of active missional proclamation, even the most cloistered communities are deeply committed to the missional ministry of intercession. In sum, every monastic vocation is implicitly and genuinely missional.

Ascetical Theology

a. Prayer life and spirituality of minister b. Understanding of Spiritual Disciplines c. Spiritual Direction d. Rule of Life e. Daily Office f. Monasticism & its role in the development of our liturgy g. Missional applications of ascetical theology h. Monasticism and mission i. Mystical & Contemplative Spirituality j. Tools for Prayer and Scripture Reading k. Vocation l. Discernment m. Gifts & Fruit of the Spirit n. Stewardship