Today, we once again entered into the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday has always intrigued me. Outside of Christmas and Easter, Ash Wednesday is probably the most recognized liturgical celebration by non-Catholics. The simple act of placing ashes on our forehead not only is a reminder to us but it is a powerful symbol to all those who see it. But today is just the beginning! The beginning of a time of preparation, a time of sacrifice, a time of prayer and a time of change. Recently I have received many questions about Lent here at the monastery. So I thought I would share a bit of the traditions here at the Mount.
The first noticeable difference is the silence. While the monastery tends to be significantly quieter than most places, during Lent the time of silence is deepened. Ash Wednesday and the Triduum are days of total silence around the monastery. On the other days during Lent, the monastery is silent until 8:15 in the morning, we add two minutes of communal statio before all prayers, and we have silence during several meals.
Liturgically, you will also see many differences during Lent. The most notable is that Liturgy of the Hours is chanted a cappella with a cantor and the community. This simple change makes a dramatic difference in the sound and simplicity of our prayers. We also use special Lenten music for the Eucharistic Liturgy and have very simple decorations in the chapel.
But the difference does not end there. Each Lent the community makes a special effort to cut back and each sister is challenged to contribute alms to AIM - the Alliance of International Monasticism. Here is a bit about AIM taken from their website.
AIM USA provides spiritual, educational, formation and building assistance to monasteries in developing countries to enable them to be centers of life for others.
Monasteries in Africa, Asia and Latin America enrich their brothers and sisters in the United States with global vision, fresh insights into monastic life, cultural diversity and gospel witness of service to the poor.
Finally, each sister makes a concerted effort to "clean out" the excess in their lives and pay special attention to the health and balance of mind, body and spirit.
All together this makes for Lent a special and wonderful time here at the Mount. May your Lent be just as blessed.
