Do monks recreate? In a manner of speaking, yes! As time permits, some might hike, others bike, still others might ride horses, when we have them, though at present we don’t.
A monastic recreation “room” is more technically a space where monks can gather for relaxation and conversation now and then.
Here we “recreate” as a community twice a week. Each Sunday, after Vespers and Benediction, we monks gather in our refectory for the evening meal, with conversation. Otherwise, our meals are in silence or accompanied by reading at lunch.
Each Thursday or Friday after supper, we gather in the Recreation Room (see today’s photo) to watch an educational video that lasts from half an hour to an hour or so. At present we are enjoying the EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network) series, “The Road Less Traveled,” available on YouTube. It is a six part series, each episode lasting an hour. Some have called it “Patristics Without Pain.” See what you think!
Truth be told, our Recreation Room began as a garage, but was eventually tastefully transformed to its current status across from the Laundry Room. Very recently the room was refurbished to its present state.
A blessed week to all, with assurance of our prayers. Please keep us in yours. Thank you.
Abbot Christian and the monks
