Becoming a Benedictine
at Kylemore Abbey

The process of discerning a Benedictine vocation includes some visits to the monastery, including a visit of three weeks or longer, to experience the life of the nuns. 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 actually entering 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 the aspirant to understand whether this monastery is the place where the aspirant can grow in holiness and develop to her full potential as a human being and a Christian. During this time of preparation, the aspirant is accompanied by the novice mistress and others as she explores the spiritual life and practices in a community of Benedictine nuns.

It is only through experiencing monastic life, and the ups and downs of community living, that a new member can make the solemn profession of their monastic vows and be accepted by 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 towards Him.
If you think you might have a vocation to become a nun at the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, please contact Sr. Jeanne, vocations director: vocations@kylemoreabbey.ie. She will be happy to help you to discern your way forward.