We are a Roman Catholic community of monks wholly ordered to contemplation, belonging to the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, more commonly known as Trappists. The monks are dedicated to the worship of God in a hidden life within the monastery following the Rule of St. Benedict. They lead a life of solitude and silence, prayer and penance, in a joyful spirit of faith. The monastic community supports itself by the common work of baking Monks' Bread. In addition, the brothers help out on the farm and with cooking, laundry, cleaning, hospitality, formation of new members, and care of the sick and elderly of the community. The community is cloistered and has no outside ministry. Guests are received for quiet, private retreats at the retreat house. The monastic day begins with vigils at 2:25 a.m. and ends with compline at 6:40 p.m. Throughout the day there is a good balance between prayer, reading, and work, all lived in fraternal love and support. Silence is practiced seriously. The brothers speak only when necessary and then as briefly as possible. Some of the brothers are priests; most are not. At the end of their formation program candidates take the monastic vows and remain with the community for the rest of their lives.