The material boundaries set by enclosure are a means to our goal. They symbolize our belonging exclusively to God. Remaining rooted within the external structures of this monastic space, we separate ourselves from what most of the world thinks important or necessary for happiness. Unencumbered by the absorbing interests and worldly values of our culture, we are free for intimate communion with God, free to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to the service of His kingdom. This kind of withdrawal allows us to be situated at the very heart of the mystery of Christ; it facilitates our imitation of his dying and rising. The spiritual struggle involved prepares us for his promise of eternal peace and blessedness.
Jesus showed that desert places are conducive to profound prayer. Often he withdrew to the wilderness to commune with his Father. Our monastery and its grounds form a sacred space, a visibly marked and invisibly enriching environment, where we can abide in the Word. Nourished in this way, we will know the truth and this truth will make us free. Our hearts will be softened by the austerity of this wilderness and pulsate with St. Dominic’s own prayer: “God of mercy, what will become of sinners?” Thus our hidden life is directed to the contemplation of the mystery of salvation realized in Christ and to the salvation of souls.
