Our Lady of the Philippines Trappist Monastery – Guimaras
Trappist Monastery in Guimaras is the only male monastery in the Philippines under the Cistercian order. The monastery was founded in 1972 with structures as ammenities such as turreted accomodation and seminar building, modern church and a farm. The members of the monastery take a vow of stability where they conform to the monastic community for life. The livelihood of the monks primarily involves agriculture and producing fruit jams such as guava and mango. They also have bakery and cookies which are sold at the gate of the monstery.
The Trappist monks abide to the Rule of St. Benedict which serves as a guide on how they conduct their day to day life.
“Strict Observance” refers to the Trappists’ aim at following closely St. Benedict’s Rule, and take the three vows described in his Rule: stability, fidelity to monastic life, and obedience. As Benedict also insisted on silence, it has some importance in their way of life. However, contrary to popular belief,they do not take a vow of silence. Trappist monks will generally only speak when necessary, and idle talk is strongly discouraged. In years past, a Trappist Sign Language, distinct from other forms of monastic sign language, was developed to dissuade speaking. Meals are usually taken in contemplative silence, as members of the order are supposed to listen to a reading. Trappists’ silence should be understood as the wish to give space to what matters: gaining a deeper love and understanding of God.”
How to get to Trappist Monastery
The Monastery can be accessed via jeepneys and Tricyles since it is located along the San Miguel Road.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thortz/
Guimaras Trappist Monk Website:
http://www.ourladyofnewhelfta.com/OLP/
Trappist Monastery Guimaras Map
Sunday, April 11th, 2010 at 11:27 amand is filed under Guimaras Tourist Spot. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
January 12th, 2012 at 5:15 am
I am planning to visit the Trappist Monastery in Guimaras.I would like to get more information.
Thank you.
Raquel Calma Nakayama