The result is a life pattern which sustains and develops our graduates long after they have left us. Past students repeatedly single out the connection with the community as having been the most significant aspect of their time with us.
The monastic rhythm
This monastic rhythm of life teaches us the importance of a harmonious balance between prayer, study, work, rest, and hospitality. The brothers pray privately for half an hour each day in addition to following a monastic routine of corporate prayer and worship. Each day is structured around Mattins, a short midday office with the Eucharist; and evensong. After a quiet compline, complete silence is observed until 9am the following day.
The college rhythm
Every Monday to Friday the college day begins at 7:30am with Mattins; we celebrate the Eucharist immediately after Mattins, and then we join the monastic community for evensong at 6.00pm. On Thursday evenings the whole college gathers to celebrate the Eucharist. On Fridays, students join CR for the midday office but are free to say Evening Prayer privately if they wish. On Sundays, we join the brothers for mattins at 7.30am and the Sunday Eucharist; then ordinands often go to a placement in a local parish.
The common table
Sharing meals is an important part of life in any community. In term-time, our refectory provides three meals a day, seven days a week, and spouses, children and guests are most welcome. Eating together is an important expression of our common life.
Silence
Christian spiritual life has always valued silence as a medium within which we can discover our essential dependence on God and also, paradoxically, as a way to learn to listen better to one another. One feature of our life together which many students particularly value is that we start our day in college in silence, and from time to time we have silent days.
“We commend the quality of life rooted in prayer, the daily offices and Holy Communion”
(Ministry Council Periodic Review 2022)
