Atmosphere
In general, the atmosphere of the monastery is quiet and prayerful. Most of us have ministries that enable us to arrange our own work schedule around the community acts of prayer, recreation, and meals.
In most monasteries we spend between 3 to 4 hours in formal prayer (including Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, and mental prayer). Since this is a principal part of our service to the Church as contemplative friars, we seek to balance the demands of the community and ministry so to assure the primacy of this prayer in our life.
Weekends
Weekends may also vary a bit as ordained members are called upon to serve the local church, celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the people of God, in parishes or for other religious communities.
Recreation
A few times a week the community will gather for a formal time of recreation–a time to come together and enjoy the gift of fraternity.
Community Meetings
There is usually a community meeting every week or two to discuss business matters, our life together, and our Carmelite values.
Formation
A Typical Day
While the schedules from one monastery to another may vary a little, according to the ministries and make-up of a particular community, they will all share a basic structure which is comprised of a few key elements (Daily Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, two hours of mental prayer, scheduled recreation, community meetings). This sample schedule will give you a good idea of the structure of a typical day.
Horarium
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Rise | 5:30 AM |
| Morning Prayer (Lauds) | 6:30 AM |
| Mental Prayer | 6:45 – 7:45 AM |
| Community Mass | 8:00 AM |
| Breakfast | 8:45 AM |
| Work/Study | 9:00 – 12:00 PM |
| Midday Prayer | In Private |
| Community Lunch | 12:00 PM |
| Work/Study | 12:30 – 4:45 PM |
| Evening Prayer (Vespers) | 4:45 PM |
| Mental Prayer | 5:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Office of Readings | 6:00 PM |
| Dinner | 6:15 – 7:00 PM |
| Work/Study | 7:00 PM |
| Night Prayer (Compline) | In Private |