We continue our series answering questions sent by our viewers. Br. Christopher responds to the question: “I’m very interested to hear about the individual New Clairvaux brothers’ calling to join the monastic life. And, if they resisted the calling at first, what were the circumstances that eventually led them to becoming a monk?”
Anyone who has lived some time in this world has faced a major transition moment, a BIG choice that will change the course of one’s life unalterably. It could be what college to go to, what profession to enter, should I marry this person? Entering monastic life or not is definitely one of them.
I had returned home after a 3-month Observership at the Abbey in May of 2005. The vocation director told me to give him an answer about returning to enter the community in one month. During that time, I reflected, kept a journal, consulted friends; most of all, I prayed!
Was there resistance to the monastic call? I knew leaving my family would be very hard for them… and for me. I can say in my discernment there was some back and forth, some bargaining. I remember asking God, couldn’t I live a very simple, monastic-type life of prayer and service at home? No, was the response; as beautiful as that life would be, that wasn’t MY call. In prayer, I heard that He was asking THIS life because in His Great Wisdom, He knew it was the best for me and for the world. At the same time, I felt a great sense of Freedom. He made it clear that He would love me no matter which way I chose and would work with me to bring the very best out of whatever path I decided to pursue. But that this was the best option. So I said yes. And I don’t regret it at all. He was Right! (As always!)
By the way, for those interested, there are many vocation stories from monks and nuns of our Order on our U.S. Region website, including a few from your own brothers from New Clairvaux. You can find them at: https://www.trappists.org/becoming-trappist/trappist-monks-and-nuns/
Prayers and Blessings,
