A Visitor from Ava

Br. Thomas, a member of our daughter-house Assumption Abbey in Ava, Missouri, arrived at New Melleray today. He will be staying with us for several weeks.

Br. Thomas had been a monk of New Melleray Abbey and was among the founders of Assumption Abbey.

 

from The Rule of St. Benedict – Chapter 61: The Reception of Visiting Monks

“A visiting monk from far away will perhaps present himself and wish to stay as a guest in the monastery.  Provided that he is content with the life as he finds it, and does not make excessive demands that upset the monastery, but is simply content with what he finds, he should be received for as long a time as he wishes.”