What is Cloistered Life?

Cloistered life is a formal way of life recognized by the Church to invite men and women to find within the hidden life of the monastery a place where they can experience the loving exchange of hearts with Christ Jesus. In this enclosure, they find their true selves and experience a foretaste of heaven!

Pope Acknowledges the Invaluable Prayers of Cloistered Religious During Visit to Brazil

In his visit to Brazil on May 12, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI singled out the life and ministry of the cloistered Poor Clares nuns who intercede for the work of "Fazenda da Esperança" (Farm of Hope) in Guaratinguetá. This world-renowned rehabilitation center is home to so many, especially young people, who are seeking to overcome drug addiction, alcoholism, and chemical dependency. Read more.

Pro Orantibus Day (For Those Who Pray) — Nov. 21

Nov. 21, the Feast of the Presentation of Mary, is the Church's annual Pro Orantibus Day, a day of support for cloistered life throughout the world. Cloistered monasteries are like the "fresh lungs" of a city — beneficial for all, including those who don't even know those religious houses exist, said Benedict XVI in inaugurating the event.

"[O]n the occasion of the liturgical memorial of the Presentation of Mary Most Holy in the Temple," the Holy Father said about this day, "we celebrate Pro Orantibus Day, dedicated to remembering cloistered religious communities. It is a particularly appropriate occasion to thank the Lord for the gift of so many persons who, in monasteries and hermitages, are totally dedicated to God in prayer, silence and hiddenness."

Read Pope Benedict XVI's Angelus reflection about Pro Orantibus Day on the Vatican's website.

For instruction and aids to celebrate the day please see our FREE resources.