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Why do monks and nuns work?
The work of monks is simply called by a stylishly worded expression: monastic crafts.
Let's journey together to discover these artisans of peace and many other wonders...
Work in monastic life: above all, a way of life
As the proverb says: everyone is the artisan of their own good fortune. This is why, originally, monks and nuns devoted themselves to crafts: to meet the needs of the abbeys. Indeed, the work of monks and nuns provides communities with income, thus ensuring the smooth functioning of community life.
Because yes, monks and nuns have always lived from the work of their hands and cultivate their talents in harmony with the specialties of the abbeys in which they live!
Each having a historical core trade, monasteries closely follow the Rule of Saint Benedict "ora et labora" which means prayer and work.
Monastic crafts are therefore the work of these monks and nuns, work that they practice with fervor alongside their life of prayer. (Only praying would have been too easy...)
Monastic crafts: the work of monks for generations
Monastic crafts are part of a long tradition that would make most of the major brands we encounter daily pale in comparison. Indeed, their products have been crafted with care and authenticity for generations. Their products are of excellent quality.
Succulent jams are therefore made with fruits from the garden, terrines with animals from the Abbey farm and wine with grapes from the monastery vineyard... a delight for the taste buds.
Since its foundation, Notre-Dame de Jouarre Abbey has welcomed Benedictine Sisters (and sometimes even YouTubers). Today, the community is particularly known for its ceramic work. The Sisters themselves make various statuettes and other pottery creations. They even handle all stages of production, from molding to firing.
Cîteaux cheese, a delicacy refined by the Brothers at Cîteaux Abbey
Some products made in monasteries have gained such a reputation that we can proudly say they are the stars of specialty markets.
The cheese from Cîteaux Abbey is the perfect example. Made with good cow's milk, this soft cheese with washed rind is a delight, which has brought fame and pride to the monks: their work is simply unmatched and its flavor is a joy for lovers of good taste.
And if you want to visit and meet the Brothers of Cîteaux, check out RITRIT!
Ever-expanding product ranges!
Whatever your desires, it's all there! The hardest part for you will be choosing!!
- TO EAT: For gourmet food products, the famous Port Salut or the Trappe au vin de noix from Echourgnac Abbey will enliven your appetizers or tastings, especially if you pair them with their jams made in copper kettles!
- TO DRINK: And for fine beer enthusiasts, the Trappists of Orval have never stopped refreshing you with their hoppy marvel, made with a historical and coveted brewing process!
- BEAUTY PRODUCTS: for ages, abbeys have even been making renowned beauty products, such as the eau d'émeraude from Bouzy-La-Forêt Abbey!
- DECORATIVE PRODUCTS: To refresh your decoration and add color to your living room, you could for example draw inspiration from the magnificent ceramics of Saint Paul de Wisques Abbey!
Conclusion: the wonders of monastic products
As you've understood, monastic crafts are part of a long and beautiful tradition that gives them all their credibility and undisputed quality. They deliver exceptional products and works of great beauty.
Buying a monastic product can also express your desire to support the communities and honor their work. With such a purchase, you greatly contribute to the life of these communities, so don't hesitate any longer!
Now that the crafts of abbeys, monasteries and convents hold no secrets for you, take the step and dare to visit in person! And for that, refine your search criteria for booking your next spiritual retreat!
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