Photos of Monastery Life
Glimpses of liturgical celebrations, community events, and visitors who have shared in the monastery's life over the years.
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Nestled in the quiet countryside of Plaisance, Louisiana, Mother of the Redeemer Monastery offers a gentle refuge from the pace of modern life. The small community of Olivetan Benedictine monks lives according to the ancient rhythm of prayer, work, and study, rooted in the Rule of Saint Benedict. Learn more about how Mary and contemplative prayer shape the daily rhythm of the monastery in the article The Monastery’s Marian Heart And Life Of Prayer. Visitors and friends of the monastery often remark on the peace that settles over the grounds, where simple living and heartfelt hospitality go hand in hand. The monks welcome those seeking a deeper spiritual life, whether through retreat visits, participation in the liturgy, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings that have become a cherished part of the local landscape.
At the heart of the monastery's daily life is the Liturgy of the Hours, prayed together several times each day. These moments of communal prayer structure the monks' schedule and invite all who join them to pause and lift their hearts to God. The celebration of the Eucharist stands as the centerpiece of the community's worship, drawing together monks, oblates, and neighbors in shared faith. Through chant, silence, and scripture, the monastery keeps alive a tradition of contemplative prayer that has sustained Benedictine communities for centuries, offering a witness to the power of faithful, unhurried devotion.
The Olivetan branch of the Benedictine family carries a rich spiritual heritage that shapes the character of this Louisiana community. Named for Monte Oliveto Maggiore, the historic motherhouse near Siena, the Olivetan congregation emphasizes contemplation, simplicity, and a deep love for the Psalms. The monks at Mother of the Redeemer continue this lineage with joy, adapting ancient practices to their own Southern setting while remaining faithful to the essential Benedictine commitments. This connection to a worldwide congregation reminds the community that they are part of something far larger than their own small circle, sharing bonds of prayer and purpose with monks across the globe.
Hospitality is a cornerstone of Benedictine life, and the monks of Mother of the Redeemer practice it with warmth and generosity. The monastery opens its doors to those who seek quiet reflection, spiritual direction, or simply a place to breathe more deeply. Guests are welcomed as Christ himself, in keeping with the Rule's ancient injunction, and are invited to share in the rhythms of prayer and meals. Whether someone comes for an afternoon, a weekend, or a longer stay, the hope is always that they leave carrying a bit of the monastery's peace back into their everyday lives.
Vocations to the monastic life remain a vital concern for the community, and the monks pray earnestly that God will raise up new members to carry this way of life forward. Men discerning a call to contemplative prayer and community living are encouraged to explore what the monastery offers, from its structured daily schedule to its supportive fraternal environment. The path to profession is gradual and prayerful, allowing candidates to test their vocation through stages of discernment, postulancy, and novitiate. The community welcomes sincere inquirers with patience and joy, trusting that the Lord who called them will continue to provide for the future of the monastery.
Oblates form a beloved extended family around the monastery, laypeople who associate themselves with the community while living in the world. These men and women commit to shaping their daily lives according to the spirit of the Rule of Saint Benedict, adapting its wisdom to the demands of family, work, and parish life. Through regular gatherings, shared prayer, and ongoing formation, oblates deepen their spiritual practice and build lasting friendships with the monks and with one another. Their presence is a powerful reminder that Benedictine spirituality is not confined within monastery walls but flourishes wherever people seek God with an open heart.
The monastery's prayer extends far beyond its own walls, embracing the needs of the Church and the world. The monks intercede daily for the Diocese of Lafayette, for the local community, and for all those who request their prayers. Many people write or call with intentions, trusting that the steady, faithful prayer of the monks will bring comfort and grace. In an age of constant activity and distraction, this ministry of intercession stands as a quiet but profound service, reminding the wider Church that prayer itself is a work of mercy and a powerful source of spiritual strength.
The natural setting of the monastery plays an important part in its contemplative character. The Louisiana landscape, with its open skies, gentle breezes, and seasonal changes, invites reflection and gratitude. The monks tend their grounds with care, finding in manual work a form of prayer and a way to honor the gift of creation. Time spent outdoors, whether in gardening, walking, or simply sitting in silence, helps to restore the soul and keep the community grounded in the simple realities of life. This attentiveness to the land echoes the Benedictine reverence for creation as a revelation of God's goodness.
Mother of the Redeemer Monastery extends a heartfelt invitation to all who wish to encounter a way of life centered on God. Whether through attending the liturgy, making a private retreat, exploring a possible vocation, or simply reaching out to learn more, there are many ways to connect with the community. The monks are eager to share their life of prayer and friendship with anyone who feels drawn to it. In a world that often feels fragmented and hurried, this small monastery in rural Louisiana offers a steady witness to the peace that comes from seeking God above all things.
