Becoming a Benedictine
at Kylemore Abbey

The process of discerning a Benedictine vocation includes frequent contact with the monastic community, including a visit of three weeks or longer, to experience how the nuns live the Rule of St. Benedict in their daily lives of prayer, work and community living. This, along with a “live-in” experience for an agreed length of time, can be part of the year of aspirancy, which is preliminary to being accepted into the community as a postulant.

Initial formation consists of one to two years of postulancy; two years as a novice; and usually five years in temporary vows. This period of preparation is intended to help both the community and those in formation discern whether this monastery is the place where the individual can grow and develop to her full potential as a human being and a Christian. During this time of preparation, accompanied by the novice mistress and others, she explores the spiritual life and practices in the community of Benedictine nuns.

It is only through experiencing monastic life, and the joys and challenges of community living, that a new member can make the solemn profession of monastic vows and be accepted into the community. From then on, the new sister and the community are committed to stand together in the daily task of working with Jesus and journeying together toward Him.

If you think you might have a vocation to become a nun at the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, please contact Sister Jeanne, vocations director: vocations@kylemoreabbey.ie. She will be happy to help you to discern your way forward.