Of important historical note is Boniface Wimmer's influence in establishing the various congregations making up the modern-day Order of St. Benedict. In particular, he was the founder of the American Cassinese Congregation of which St. Benedict's Abbey is a member. For further details, see our history page . And for more information about Benedictinism see the Order of St. Benedict Index . The Monastic Vows Not only history, but knowledge of the monastic vows taken by a monk is helpful for understanding the monastic life.
Monastic vows are very similar to the evangelical counsels with a few additions.
By professing stability , the monk commits himself to life in a particular monastic community until death. He is bound not to just a place, but to a way of life with a particular community. The ascetical labor of sharing in Christ's passion by dying to sin and by leaving unchosen many things of great value for the sake of the Kingdom leads to the life and freedom of the resurrection. By professing obedience , the monk desires to imitate Jesus Christ who perfectly did the will of his Father in heaven. It was through Christ's obedience in laying down his life for humanity that redemption and resurrection were made possible for all.