The Monastery--First Episode

Late Sunday night I watched the first episode of the TLC show “The Monastery.” It was a treat to see and hear the brothers of Christ in the Desert. Watching the show made me want to return to this holy and beautiful place.

Hearing the monks talk about monastic life and the Rule of Benedict is definitely my favorite part of the show. The visitors who have made a commitment to live as the monks do for 40 days are less interesting. Two of them behave like louts. But this is a 10 week series and I imagine that the people and the place will eventually move them in some way.

After I watched the show, I sent an email to the monastery expressing my appreciation for the kindness and hospitality I enjoyed as a guest at the monastery. I got a lovely note in return from Abbot Philip.

I was a bit worried about how the producers would present the monks and monastic life, but it is beautifully done. The show is no “Survivor.” Watching it may make you want to spend a few days as a guest at this special place.