The youngest novice there now is in his 30s. In the 1950s we had 270 brothers and the median age was 35. The present abbot has been in the position for 20 years, conner explained. Then there are the master of novices, master of students, and various department heads. The abbot is assisted by a pastoral council and a business committee as well as by community consultations.
Financial support comes through the sale of cheese, fruitcakes and fudge, all made at the monastery.
Conner said he loves to travel even though his duties at the monastery have placed restrictions on his favorite pastime. In 1962, when he was ordained, he was sent to Europe to study for his teaching degree. In 1984 he took a trip to Asia. He has been back at the monastery in Bardstown for three years now. I have no regrets about my choice in life.