Monastic Recruiting

Monastic Recruiting June 28, 2016

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Our understanding of recruiting tends to be based in giving people something they want. We try to entice people into our organization or company. We want to give them a package of salary and benefits to persuade them to join us. We work to reward their potential contributions to our efforts. Some people receive bonuses above and beyond their regular salaries just for starting work.

The monks I know have a different approach to recruiting. They want to attract people who will become strong, healthy members of their communities. Chapter 58 of Benedict’s Rule describes the procedure for receiving new monks.

It begins, “Do not grant newcomers to the monastic life an easy entry.”

The process described is one of testing, proving, and perseverance. For example, when someone seeks to enter, they should be allowed to come in after a few days. The monks are looking to see the applicant’s patience and persistence in difficulty. Only then should someone be allowed to enter the guest quarters.

Benedict describes a process of testing and mentoring. In part, this process reflects the hardships and challenges of spiritual life.

Some of the details have been refined since Benedict’s day. Monks do, though, follow a strenuous process. It takes years to become a monk. Each step is immersed in mutual discernment. The process is designed to ensure the applicant is taking the right step for them. The process also ensures the person applying is a good fit for the community.

Monks do not become free agents.

One of a monk’s final vows is of stability. The discernment process is seeking answers to questions with lifelong implications.

How do you ensure people you recruit are a good fit for your organization?

Who would you recruit if it were a lifetime commitment?

[Image by Fields of View]


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