Prayer and Work,
Like St. Benedict
At Saint Andrew’s Abbey, our monks carry on the monastic tradition set forth by St. Benedict. A monk’s fidelity to this tradition transforms every day of his life into an offering to God through “ora et labora” (prayer and work). This rhythm of daily life draws the soul deeper into union with God and community with each other.
To learn more about the Rule of St. Benedict, get it here at the store.
Whatever good work you begin to do,
beg of God with most earnest prayer to perfect it.
St. Benedict
A Daily Rhythm
Prayer Life
We gather five times a day to pray as a community, using the monastic tradition of the Divine Office. Guests are always welcome to join us.
The daily schedule at Valyermo is a modern adaptation of the cycle of prayer and work prescribed by St. Benedict in his Rule. Periods of common and private prayer, manual labor, and study are intertwined, so that the entire day can take on the character of Divine Praise.
The daily schedule is as follows:
Lectio Divina
The heart of a monk’s prayer is Lectio Divina, the careful reading of the Word of God. This daily practice draws the monk deep into the presence of God.
Music
We chant the Divine Office together to continue the monastic tradition of praising God through music. Our community has been a home for singers and musicians for generations.
What is it like
Being a Monk?
Want to learn more about what it’s like to be a Benedictine monk at Saint Andrew’s Abbey? Check out our Q&A.
Matthew 7:7