Monks Host Students from University of Dubuque

On Friday, January 11, sixteen students and two professors from University of Dubuque were hosted at New Melleray Abbey.  The event was the second “Lunch and Learn for College Students” offered by the monks after hosting several students from Loras College in November.  The students joined the monks for prayer at 11:45 a.m. and then were accompanied by Fr. Alberic to lunch where he offered them an introduction to the monastic way of life.  Lunch was followed by a tour of the monastery.  In the chapel, students were introduced to the liturgical books the monks use for praying the Divine Office.  Other stops on the tour were the Chapter Room, the Cloister Garth, the Sacristy, and the Refectory, (monastic dining room).  At each point on the tour, Fr. Alberic was able to provide descriptions of moments in the day of the life of a monk as well as address questions posed by students.  The tour ended with a blessing and good-byes at 1:45 p.m.  This particular group was a philosophy class studying writings on the mystery of death.  They may return for a tour of Trappist Caskets where monks make simple wooden caskets for grieving families who contact us from all over the country.  The monks are very appreciative of these meeting with students which are always revealing of the experience and particular needs of the younger generation coming along.