Cistersian Monks

Cistercian monks are members of a Roman Catholic monastic order founded in 1098 in Cîteaux, France. They emphasize a simple, austere lifestyle focused on prayer, work, and community living. Following the Rule of St. Benedict, they strive for greater simplicity and self-sufficiency, often engaging in agriculture and craftsmanship. Cistercians practice contemplative prayer and seek a deeper connection with God. Their monasteries are typically located in rural areas, emphasizing a harmonious relationship with nature. The order has played a significant role in the history of medieval spirituality, agriculture, and the development of European monasticism.