For St. Benedict, to work is to participate in God s act of Creation and to express our human dignity. For this reason, Benedictines have a strong tradition of hospitality, and try to extend every courtesy to all guests. Guests at Saint Gregory's Abbey include everyone who comes on our grounds, but especially refers to our students and employees, and those who stay at the monastery. In light of this, we at St. Gregory s observe silence at some of our communal meals. Breakfast is eaten in silence.
Lunch is an informal meal and talking is permitted.
Supper is a more formal meal, and begins and ends with shared prayer. The practice of table reading is kept at supper Monday through Friday. During these meals a member of the community reads from books on a variety of subjects. On Saturdays and Sundays, supper is eaten informally and talking is permitted.