“Idleness is the enemy of the soul”
The Rule of Saint Benedict, chapter 48
Work is important to monastic life because through work we cooperate with God’s continuing act of creation. The Abbot of the monastery assigns the monk his work and this is decided upon based on the needs of the community and the monk’s own talents and interests.
For monks of Saint Meinrad Archabbey work takes many forms. This includes teaching, administration, writing, pastoral work, giving retreats, spiritual direction, gardening, maintenance, carpentry, and fine arts. Monks serve each other in household jobs such as dishwashing, cleaning, and waiting on tables in the refectory.
A major work of the community is the Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, which offers monks a number of types of work including teaching.