Two Paths
Because we are a monastery of Stoics, it is expected that those who are interested in becoming members of the monachi have made a mature commitment to one philosophy, the Stoic philosophy. It is also expected that those who wish to join the monachi will know the essential principles of Stoic logic, physics, and ethics. Then, they must make a decision.
Our monastery has two parallel paths that can be taken, and the path you choose should be based upon the kind of monk you wish to become: the Monastery Monk or the Forest Monk. Both are equal members and answer to one abbot, but the requirements to embarking on each path vary and should be carefully considered. The monk’s relationship to the monastery depends upon which path they have chosen. The Monastery Monk is considered “inside” and is part of the practices agreed upon. The Forest Monk is considered “outside” and is primarily self-directed with access to a senior advisor.
Abbot Erik Wiegardt
Path One: the Monastery Monk
PREREQUISITES: The candidate must be a graduate of the College of Stoic Philosophers’ course, Stoic Essentials Studies (SES). In keeping with the longstanding monastic traditions of both East and West, The Stoic Monastery is currently available only to men. See “this form” below if you are interested in becoming a Novitiate.
NOVITIATE: Once the application process had been satisfactorily completed the applicant becomes a Novitiate. This is a probationary period wherein both the monastery and the novitiate may decide whether becoming a monk would be ideal at this time. The Novitiate Period consists mostly of reading several books, freely available, and attending several video conferences in preparation for joining the monachi. It is during this time that the Novitiate prepares for the following requirement.
REQUIREMENT: The Monastery Monk will prepare a Sacred Space somewhere in their home or other place of residence. The Sacred Space may be on a shelf, dresser top, alcove, or an entire room dedicated to communion with the inner divine.
Path Two: the Forest Monk
PREREQUISITES: The candidate must be a graduate of the College of Stoic Philosophers’ course, Stoic Essentials Studies (SES). In keeping with the longstanding monastic traditions of both East and West, The Stoic Monastery is currently available only to men. See “this form” below if you are interested in becoming a Novitiate.
NOVITIATE: Once the application process had been satisfactorily completed the applicant becomes a Novitiate. This is a probationary period wherein both the monastery and the novitiate may decide whether becoming a monk would be ideal at this time. The Novitiate Period consists mostly of reading several books, freely available, and attending several video conferences in preparation for joining the monachi. It is during this time that the Novitiate prepares for the following requirement.
REQUIREMENT: The Forest Monk may live in an actual forest, or he may live in an apartment in the city, but the Forest Monk’s attitude is one that embraces the realization of God within all. To that end the monk will establish a personal and active relationship of care for a forest, a tree, a garden, or a single plant.
Those interested in entering the monastery must fill out this form.