Work belongs to the essential rhythm of a fully human life. For Dominican nuns, work and the necessary leisure for prayer and lectio alternate in a well balanced measure. We avoid activism, yet realize the value and beauty of work. It is an exercise of mind and muscle which fosters mental equilibrium and peace. Faith in the Paschal Mystery aligns our work with Christ’s wonderful redemptive work. By our work we hope to build up charity in the community through our cooperation with one another. We put all our talents and our gifts of nature and grace at the service of the community for the glory of God. Work is demanded by religious poverty, and because it demands effort, it is also seen as one of the more common forms of asceticism. Our work schedule here at the monastery always gives priority to the Divine Office and prayer, as well as to sacred reading and doctrinal study (LCM 106.I, II, IV).
