Westmalle Abbey forms part of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. All communities in the Order maintain ties of mutual solidarity.
Each community is a training school in the art of loving thy neighbour. This love and solidarity is extended to all people of good will, as can be clearly seen in the way visitors are received at the abbey.
The Community
Admission into the community
If you would like to be admitted to the Westmalle community, you will embark on a five-year training and education process. This time serves as a trial period called ‘formation’ during which your vocation is confirmed and becomes more profound. Afterwards you may choose to make a lasting commitment to the community by making solemn vows.
The Vows made by the brothers
An aspirant monk or postulant, who, after his five-year formation period, is ready to commit to the community on a permanent basis makes four solemn vows.
Life within the community
Although the brothers have chosen to lead a secluded existence away from the world, they do not live like hermits. They remain in touch with their fellow brothers as well as the wider world; contact that the brothers see as another way of finding God.
A life of prayer
Prayer allows a monk to let go of everyday concerns and to focus his attention on God.
Charity
Monks in the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance must cover their own costs of living. Any surplus proceeds from the abbey’s production are spent primarily on development projects, both in Belgium and abroad, or to assist individuals in need.
Joining in prayer
Everybody is welcome to join in with the abbey’s communal prayers. Some choose to only attend one of the daily services, such as the Eucharist, the evening service (Vespers) or the closure of the day (Compline). Some visitors join us every day.
If you wish to experience the Liturgy of the Hours observed by the abbey for yourself, you are welcome to stay at the abbey for a few days and take part in the entire daily round of prayers.