For many people who would never call themselves monastic, a Benedictine Experience cultivates and nourishes that monastic dimension within them. A Benedictine Experience is neither conference nor retreat, but a carefully planned, unique attempt to bring together in community people, young and old, active and retired, laity and clergy to study and experience that balanced way of life as the Rule of St. Benedict envisaged it, giving due attention to body, mind and spirit. Particpants are invited to enter a simple rule of life which provides a framework for growth in personal faith and suppport in their witness to Christ at home, work and Church. Participants take part in an ordered day of prayer, study, work and leisure. Daily lectures and meditations are led by a gifted faculty.
Time is set aside for silence and meditation.
Mornings are devoted to study and, because the work of the hands is a vital part of the Benedictine way, participants are encouraged to take part in a work project each afternoon. Evenings allow time for further talks, discussion, or music. The programs vary in length from a weekend to one week. The Friends of Saint Benedict.