Some frequently asked questions, with their answers...

What exactly is a monk?

A monk is a man who lives in obedience to the Monastic Rule and an Abbot. Some monks also become priests, but it is not part of the definition of a monk. Essentially they are men who feel called to wholehearted Christian life of prayer and community. The community is their family - they do not marry. [back to the top]

Why do people become monks?

People who ask that question are sometimes puzzled by how attractive the Benedictine life is, some 1,500 years after St Benedict! The attractiveness of living the gospel life, our baptismal life, in a simple and radical way affects most people who visit. There is a sense of purpose, of peace, of unity and balance, and genuine spiritual friendship here. [back to the top]

How do you become a monk?

You ask the Abbot to consider you. He will speak with you in order to consider what is best for you, and may invite you to keep visiting the community, letting the community get to know you while you get to know them also. Good signs of a vocation are a real desire for prayer, and a humble willingness to learn alongside others. Reading the Rule of St Benedict is a good start, then ask to visit. If you want to speak more about it, why not contact Fr Bede by email? - bede@ampleforth.org.uk.

If you are allowed to try out the life as a novice, you will have one full year before you are invited to take temporary vows (for three years only at first). If all is well at the end of that time, the monk could renew his temporary vows, or take Solemn Vows for life. [back to the top]

Do you need special qualifications to become a monk?

No, not really. Each community has a certain type of work, so it is well to choose one who do the sort of work you feel suited to. At Ampleforth our work is largely schoolteaching, parish work and hospitality, for instance. Monastic communities often have a variety of men in them, from varied backgrounds and talents.  [back to the top]

Is it possible to come and stay at the Abbey?

Yes, thousands of people visit us each year. Have a look at our Hospitality website, or email them with your query. There are opportunities for groups of any age, or for individuals. Our guests usually join us for our sung prayer during the day, and for Mass.  [back to the top]

Do you still do much in Latin?

Most of our prayer is in English, and sung. We still sings parts of the mass in Latin, and Vespers too. We still cherish the ancient skills of singing plainchant. We have made some CDs of this. [Click here for more details] [back to the top]