Community
The Abbaye at Bonnevaux is home to a residential community living in the spirit of the Rule of St. Benedict
Daily Life
Daily life is centred in the spirit of silence within a rhythm of prayer, work and study, hospitality and care for others.
During the set times of prayer and meditation all other activities pause and move into silence and stillness. All are invited to share in the daily work of running the centre.
Times of Meditation and Liturgy * (at the Barn):
- 7h - Meditation
- 7h45 - Morning Prayer and Meditation
- 12h15 - Midday Prayer and Meditation
- 18h - Evening Prayer and Meditation
* On Monday evening meditation takes place in the library.
Contemplative Eucharist (at the Barn):
- 12h - Sunday Contemplative Eucharist (also live online)
- 7h45 - Tuesday Contemplative Eucharist
- 18h -Thursday Contemplative Eucharist
The Abbaye
The Abbaye at Bonnevaux is home to a residential community living
in the spirit of the Rule of St. Benedict.
The original foundations and extant cloister of the Abbaye date to the 12th century – the main building experienced significant remodelling in the 19th century. Our renovation of Bonnevaux respects the heritage of the past while meeting the needs of the present. Although archival evidence suggests a much earlier origin, documents show that an Abbaye, affiliated to the Order of Cîteaux, was built here in 1201.
The Tradition
John Main OSB (1926-1982) was a major spiritual figure of the twentieth century, known for his revival of meditation in the Christian tradition as part of the contemplative dimension of faith for all people. His simple and profound teaching recognises that meditation creates community. The Community at Bonnevaux and the wider World Community are witness to this insight.