How can the monastic vows be applied to the school community?
Monks make three vows: stability, conversion of life and obedience. Just like the vows between a husband and a wife, these form an anchor in life and have much to offer us all in our Benedictine school:
- Stability: In a world of restless living students, staff and families are encouraged to sink their roots and stand firm here at Ampleforth for a time. It becomes the students' home during term-time. They develop a sense of belonging, with companions amongst both staff and fellow members of their Houses.
- Conversion of Life: In this environment, there is stimulus to grow and change. (RB58) We learn to live together with respect and tolerance. We are often surprised by the strengths of the whole, and by the weakneses too. Each day provides a fresh start. (Prologue & RB58). This vow is a challenge to develop and to improve, something always needed in a school
- Obedience: In the Rule, obedience has the sense of 'listening'. The Rule encourages a culture of listening to each other, and also provides space for the well-timed, respectful and patient dialogue when things aren't going too smoothly! Being a good listener is a valuable skill that serves our students well in later life as friends and colleagues. (Prologue & RB58). Benedict is not afraid of discipline: 'the good of all concerned may prompt us to a little strictness in order to amend faults and to safeguard love'. (RB Pro. 47). In this way obedience is how we learn to trust others and have respect for authority.