Untitled Document

It is the cistercian conviction that the inner self learns through experience. Thus the purpose of each step in formation and discernment of vocation is to lead the person to a spiritual experience. This experience leaves its trace in the memory as an insight, a grasping or seeing, as a gift of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately this is an insight into God, but begins with self understanding. St. Bernard writes that as we experience the truth of ourselves, both our nobility and sinfulness, we can understand the truth of our neighbor and ultimately the truth about God. The goal of this understanding is love, a love of ourselves, our neighbors (compassion) and of God, all for God's sake. Pondering and internalizing this teaching is the core of cistercian life and formation.
Discernment of vocation takes time and testing. However, St. Benedict gives several initial desires which suggests the possibility of a monastic vocation: truly seeks God, eager for the Work of God, and for obedience. Also, as you read, ask yourself whether cistercian formation resonates with your own desires and searching.