Tower Topics ~ Summer 2001

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Twenty-two experience monastic life

Twenty-two people tasted monastic life at Conception Abbey during two Monastic Experiences in March.

The Experiences allow college-age students to immerse themselves in the life of the monks for four days. They follow the monastic prayer schedule and eat each meal with a different monk. The monks, and sisters from nearby Clyde Convent offer instruction in Benedictine prayer, share vocation stories and convey through words and action the experience of community life.

“The people who attend truly learn what a transforming experience it can be to live a balanced life of prayer and work,” said Father Albert Breucken, the abbey’s vocation director.

Participants took their turns serving meals and worked on the abbey grounds.

Most participants expressed appreciation for the simplicity of the experience.

“It was meaningful to just take the time to find out how much I need God in my life,” said Elizabeth Bermann. “It’s a wonderful way to renew the spirit and get back to the important things in life.”

“If you want to open your heart and mind, this is the place to go” said participant Barbara Mulert.

The next four-day Monastic Experience will be March 16-21 and 23-28 next year. For more information, call Father Albert at (660) 944-2857, write him at P.O. Box 501, Conception, MO 64433, or reach him by e-mail at monks@conception.edu .

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