Trappist Abbey of the Genesee

This is a Roman Catholic community of contemplative monks, belonging to the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, more commonly known as Trappists. The monks are dedicated to the worship of God in a hidden life within the monastery following the Rule of Saint Benedict. Theirs is a life of solitude and silence, prayer and penance, in a joyful spirit of faith. The monastic community supports itself by the common work of baking Monks’ Bread. Other work includes cooking, laundry, cleaning, hospitality, formation of new members, and care of the sick and elderly of the community. The community is cloistered and has no outside ministry. Guests are received for quiet, private retreats at one of three retreat houses. The monastic day begins with Vigils at 3:30 a.m. and ends with Compline at 7:30 p.m. There is a good balance between prayer, reading, and work, all lived in fraternal love and support. Silence is practiced seriously. Some of the brothers are priests; most are not.

---

Contact:

fr. isaac slater, O.C.S.O.
Vocation Director
3258 River Road
Piffard, NY 14533

585-299-5083
isaacslater@abbeymonks.com
www.geneseeabbey.org

 

Professed Members: 22
Year Founded: 1951
Diocese: Rochester, NY
Federation: Generalate in Rome, Italy
Worldwide: Every continent
Qualifications: Applicants should be between 25 and 50 years of age, practicing Roman Catholics in good standing and free from all moral and financial obligations. They need to be in good physical and mental health and possess above average spiritual and emotional maturity required for a cloistered life in community. At least a high school education is required and some work experience, ministry or military service.
Formation: The monks have a one month observership, a six month postulancy, two year novitiate and a minimum of three years of temporary profession before making solemn vows for life.
Age range/limit: 20-50
Belated vocations? No