Today, we at Daylesford Abbey celebrating the Vocation of St. Norbert on his Feastday. St. Norbert of Xanten, a priest who lived 900 years ago, was called to a life of peace, reconciliation and harmony. He was an instrumental figure in the Church and his legacy is alive in the Norbertine Order (or the Order of Canons Regular of Premontre).
Daylesford Abbey is a Norbertine Community established over fifty years ago. Our priests and brothers continue the vision of St. Norbert by living a life in common prayer and in service to the Church.
St. Norbert, also known as Norbert of Xanten, is a Catholic saint and the founder of the Norbertines. He was born in Xanten, Germany, in the year 1080. Prior to his religious calling, Norbert led a life of privilege and held a high-ranking position in the court of the Archbishop of Cologne.
The Life and Teachings of St. Norbert
St. Norbert, born in the 11th century, embarked on a transformative journey that led him to establish the Premonstratensian Order, also known as the Norbertines. Inspired by his own conversion experience, Norbert dedicated his life to preaching, teaching, and fostering a community centered around prayer, penance, and service. His teachings emphasized the importance of living a life in harmony with God, seeking humility, and practicing selflessness.
The Norbertine Way of Life
Joining the Norbertines means embracing a unique way of life deeply rooted in the principles set forth by St. Norbert. At the heart of this way of life lies the communal life shared by the members of the order. Living in a Norbertine abbey or priory, men are encouraged to form deep bonds with their fellow brothers, supporting and challenging each other in their spiritual growth.
Spiritual Growth and Formation
One of the most compelling reasons for men to consider joining the Norbertines is the opportunity for profound spiritual growth and formation. Through a structured and intentional process, aspiring Norbertines undergo a period of discernment, followed by postulancy and novitiate, where they deepen their understanding of the Norbertine spirituality and way of life. The formation process is guided by experienced mentors and provides the necessary tools and teachings to foster spiritual growth.
The Norbertine Vocation
In today’s fast-paced and chaotic world, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to find peace, purpose, and spiritual fulfillment. For those seeking a deeper connection with their faith and a life of contemplation, the Norbertines offer a unique path. Rooted in the teachings of St. Norbert, this Catholic religious order provides a nurturing environment where men can grow spiritually, contribute to their communities, and find meaning in their lives. In this blog post, we will explore the life and legacy of St. Norbert and discuss why men should consider joining the Norbertines.
Embracing Contemplative Prayer
Prayer is the cornerstone of the Norbertine life. Through their commitment to daily prayer, Norbertines cultivate a deep connection with God and create a sacred space for reflection and contemplation. The rhythm of the liturgy and the communal prayer services allow men to delve into the mysteries of faith, find solace, and seek divine guidance. The practice of contemplative prayer offers a respite from the noise of the world, providing a serene environment for personal growth and connection with God.
Embodying the Norbertine Charism
The Norbertines place a strong emphasis on service to the Church and the wider community. Through their commitment to hospitality, pastoral work, education, and outreach, Norbertines actively participate in building a more just and compassionate society. Joining the Norbertines provides men with a unique opportunity to serve others, make a positive impact, and contribute to the spiritual and social well-being of their local communities.
In a world filled with distractions and demands, the Norbertines offer a haven of peace, spirituality, and service. Following in the footsteps of St. Norbert, men who join the Norbertines embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, deepening their faith, and nurturing their spiritual growth.
Through communal living, contemplative prayer, and active service, the Norbertines foster an environment where men can find true fulfillment and contribute meaningfully to the world around them. If you are seeking a life of purpose, serenity, and spiritual growth, consider exploring the path of the Norbertines and discover the transformative power of St. Norbert.