COVID-19 Lockdown, Day 92

First full, and long, day at the monastery. Since I had gotten in late last night, I didn't get up on time for Matins (or Vigils), which is at 5:10 AM, but I did make it for Lauds, Terce, Holy Eucharist, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline. Very beautiful and simplistic simple chanting. Almost as cleansing as the Missionary Baptist call to worship chant (aka I Love the Lord; He Heard My Cry). The food isn't the best so far (for a picky eater like me), but I was prepared for this. Besides, the food was the least of my motivation to come. There are three monks here, with two "fathers," including Father John Cochran, the Father Superior. A "father" is simply an ordained pastor who is also a monk. There is also a postulant who is an immigrant from Korea. There were also 3 Lay Benedictines who are residents here, and a father and a son who are visitors.

I have been invited by the Reverend Father to become a Lay Benedictine. As I almost consider myself an independent friar, this may be right up my alley. Besides, I am in the process of resigning from one vocation. I tried starting an online religious order many years ago, Opus Christi, but I did not get enough people to be interested in it.  Maybe this is something I am meant to be. I would not take monastic vow. I would essentially do what I am doing already, which is regular church attendance and Eucharist participation, as well as praying regularly, but I would also be expected to pray for the monastery, keep in contact, visit at least once a year, and giving a tithe of a tithe (10% of whatever I give regularly.) I'll talk it over with the wife before making a commitment.

Well, I need to go to bed so that I will be ready to get up tomorrow morning.

--Signing off.

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