Discerning a call to the monastic life is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. It’s not always a clear or instant revelation, but rather a process of listening, praying, and seeking guidance. If you’re wondering whether God may be inviting you to pursue this sacred path, you are not alone. Many who feel this stirring wrestle with questions, doubts, and signs. This blog post explores how you might recognize a call to the monastic life and what steps you can take to discern it more clearly.
1. A Persistent Inner Tug
One of the most common experiences of those called to the monastic life is a recurring and persistent sense that they are meant for something more—something deeper. You may find yourself drawn to silence, simplicity, prayer, or community life, even when other life paths are available or appealing. This quiet yet steady pull often doesn’t go away, even when you try to ignore it.
Reflection Question: Do you feel an inner yearning for a life devoted entirely to God?
2. A Love for Prayer and Contemplation
Monastic life is centered on prayer, often in structured rhythms throughout the day (the Liturgy of the Hours). If you find yourself naturally inclined toward prayer, meditation, Eucharistic adoration, or Scripture reading—and feel at peace when you engage in them—this could be a sign.
Reflection Question: Do you feel most alive and fulfilled when you are praying or in spiritual contemplation?
3. A Desire for Community and Simplicity
Monasticism involves living in community with others who share a common rule and spiritual focus. Those called to this life often find joy in simple living, shared meals, manual labor, and communal worship. If you long for meaningful relationships grounded in faith and mutual support rather than worldly success, monastic life might resonate with you.
Reflection Question: Does the idea of living simply and sharing life with others in faith appeal to you?
4. Discomfort With the World’s Values
Feeling out of place in modern culture—especially in terms of consumerism, competition, and noise—can be another indicator. If you feel increasingly detached from worldly ambitions and more drawn to a quiet, contemplative life dedicated to God, take note.
Reflection Question: Are you dissatisfied with the world’s promises of happiness and feel called to a different kind of life?
5. Encouragement From Others
Sometimes, people close to you may notice something before you do. A spiritual director, priest, or even friends and family might suggest that you consider religious life. While not definitive, external affirmation can be a helpful confirmation of your internal experience.
Reflection Question: Have others recognized in you a deep spirituality or suggested you might have a religious vocation?
6. Peace When You Explore the Idea
When you consider monastic life seriously—whether through visiting a monastery, speaking with a monk or nun, or reading about the lifestyle—you may feel a deep and unexplainable peace. This interior peace is often the Holy Spirit’s way of affirming a possible call.
Reflection Question: When you imagine yourself living in a monastery, do you feel a sense of peace and clarity?
What Should You Do If You Think You’re Being Called?
If several of the signs above resonate with you, here are some practical next steps:
- Pray regularly and ask God for clarity.
- Find a spiritual director—someone trained to help you discern God’s will.
- Visit monasteries—stay for a retreat or short visit to experience the rhythm of monastic life.
- Read the Rule of St. Benedict or other spiritual writings from monastic traditions.
- Talk to monks or nuns—their personal experiences can provide valuable insight.
Final Thoughts
Discerning a vocation to the monastic life takes time. It’s not about having all the answers but about being open to God’s leading. If your heart is quietly but persistently drawn to a life of prayer, community, and contemplation, take it seriously. God calls in many ways—through desire, restlessness, and peace—and responding to that call can lead to profound joy and purpose.
“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” — 1 Samuel 3:10
If you’re curious about monastic life or ready to explore it further, consider reaching out to us. We offer “Live-In” retreats to help you continue the journey of discernment. Let your heart remain open—God speaks in silence. More information can also be found here.
