We continue our series answering your questions, as Fr. Placid replies to the question: “Why do some of the monks wear priest vestments during Mass while others wear their daily habit? And why do some monks actually officiate at the Mass while others just stand around the altar and answer the prayers? Are there different levels of monks?”
Here at New Clairvaux we are all monks. Some monks are also ordained priests. The priest-monks officiate at the community Mass. According to the Rule of St. Benedict, the abbot may have some of his monks ordained priests to serve the community. Chapter 63 of the Rule states, “If an Abbot desires to have a priest or a deacon ordained for his monastery, let him choose one who is worthy to exercise the priestly office.” (RB 62)
The Monasticate, as the monastery’s formation period is called, educates brothers to have the faculties necessary for priestly ordination. The abbot will consult his council and the priests of the council regarding the brother(s) who he thinks can function worthily in this role when there is a need for more priests. The consultation ascertains whether the brother has the theological, psychological, and pastoral aptitude to celebrate the Mass, hear confessions, and give spiritual counsel.
In another sense, there are different levels of monks in that there are different stages toward Solemn (lifetime) Vows. Those living in the community in initial discernment are called Observers (grey smocks) and Postulants (white smocks). Novices wear white scapulars and cinctures with a cloak. Those in simple (temporary) vows wear black scapulars and leather belts with the cloak. Those in Solemn Vows wear cowls.
God’s blessing to all,
Your brothers of New Clairvaux
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