FAQs

Q: What is a Rule of Life?

A Rule of life is absolutely essential to any monastic life. It says ‘this is who we are, this is our story’; and it reminds us of those things God has put on our hearts, calling us back to our foundations. The idea of a Rule of life developed in Christian monastic communities, and indeed, monasteries and convents today still function under a Rule, the best-known of which is that of St Benedict, dating from the 6th century. Monastic stability is based on accountability to the Rule of life; it serves as a framework for freedom – not as a set of rules that restrict or deny life, but as a way of living out our vocation alone and together. It is rooted in Scripture, pointing always to Christ; and, in the words of St Benedict, it is ‘simply a handbook to make the very radical demands of the gospel a practical reality in daily life.’

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Q: What does it mean to be canonically recognized?

The Episcopal Church canonically recognizes 18 traditional orders and 14 Christian communities for men, women, or both. Episcopal Canons are the laws that govern the Episcopal Church USA. When a community seeks canonical recognition, they fulfill certain requirements set forth by the Church and are then reviewed by a committee of Bishops, who then determine whether or not to officially recognize that community within the Church laws. Not all communities seek canonical recognition and it is not required to function and offer ministry and prayer within your community. Seeking canonical recognition is an important decision made within each community. NAECC can help you determine whether this process is right for your community. 

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Q: What is the difference between traditional orders and christian communities? 

A Religious Order of this Church is a society of Christians (in communion with the See of Canterbury) who voluntarily commit themselves for life, or a term of years, to holding their possessions in common or in trust; to a celibate life in community; and obedience to their Rule and Constitution.   (Title III, Canon 14, section 1)

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A Christian Community of this Church is a society of Christians (in communion with the See of Canterbury) who voluntarily commit themselves for life, or a term of years, in obedience to their Rule and Constitution.  (Title III, Canon 14, section 2)

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