Volunteers are Fundamental!
Non-profit organizations could not do the great work that makes for a better world without the help of volunteers. The Benedictine Sisters of Florida organization is strengthened in its ability to serve others because volunteers give of their time, talent and resources. Positively impacting the lives of those who call on us is a personal commitment that enriches everyone. There is much to be done so get involved today – a few hours, an entire day – whatever works for you – it all makes a difference!
A balanced life of “Ora et Labora,” (“Prayer and Work”) is a basic principle of Benedictine life.
At Holy Name Monastery, we welcome volunteers to join us in our daily work, as well as our prayer life.
These are some areas where we have work opportunities for volunteers:
- Helping in our Aquaponics/Hydroponics
- Flower Garden/Weeding
- Driving Sister to Shopping, Visits, Appointments
- Reception Desk/Secretarial/Computer/Library
- Maintenance/Housekeeping/Decorating
- Laundry/Ironing/Sewing and Mending
- Serving Meals/Washing Dishes/Kitchen help
- Washing/Cleaning cars
Most volunteers come during the day for their assigned tasks. While here, they may join us for mass and prayers, recreation and meals. Some specialize in aquaponics and spend most of their time outdoors and in our greenhouse with Sister Miriam. A few stay for weeks or months as “Residential Volunteers.”
Let’s talk about the opportunities! Call our Advancement Office at (352) 588-8443 or email at hnmdevelopment@saintleo.edu.
Volunteer Live-in Opportunities
Have you wondered what living in a monastic community would be like? The Benedictine Sisters of Florida’s Volunteer Live-in Program is an opportunity for women who have a desire to experience such a life. By sharing in daily prayer and work for a specified time, volunteers can determine if this is a path on which they would like to continue.
Note: If you are discerning a Religious Vocation, volunteering is a great way to see if community living is for you.
Requirements:
- Single, widowed, or divorced women – 25-60’s and no dependents
- Desire to experience monastic life
- Good health to participate in community living
- Ability to adapt to different types of work and community life
- Financially independent to provide for major personal expenses
Length of Service:
2 weeks to 1 year with the option to renew or extend the arrangement if it is mutually beneficial.
Types of Placement:
- Computer
- Companion to the elderly
- Driving
- Sacristy/Chapel
- Maintenance/Housekeeping
- Kitchen Help
- Music and Liturgy
- Hospitality
- Reception desk
- Gardening
- Business office/clerical
- Library
- Direct Service to the Poor
Benefits to the Volunteer:
- Living in the monastery and sharing meals with the Sisters
- Experiencing community and interacting with like-minded women
- Opportunity for daily Eucharist and Liturgy of the Hours
- Orientation to Benedictine Life and Values
- In-service training as needed
- Participation in workshop and educational opportunities
- Spiritual direction if desired
- Designated community recreational activities
We look forward to providing more information, answering any questions you may have, and warmly welcoming you for an initial visit!
Residential Volunteer Application Process:
If you live nearby, you are probably already volunteering during the day and have completed the volunteer application. If you live at a distance, you could schedule a get-acquainted visit here for a few days, in the same way as any other guest.
Once you have spent a couple of days here and are still interested in becoming a live-in volunteer, you should ask to meet with the Prioress, Sister Roberta. If, during your discussion, it seems that it would be mutually beneficial, you may request a “residential volunteer” application form and she will give it to you.
If your application is approved, you will be invited for a “preliminary visit” as a volunteer. The length of time will be agreed upon, and then you will contact S. Mary Clare to schedule your visit. You will be assigned tasks to do with the sisters during this visit. You will begin weekly meetings with Sister Mary David for a short course on Benedictine values when you come. This initial visit could be extended, or you could come back as a long-term volunteer.
For more information, contact Holy Name Monastery at (352) 588-8320 and ask to speak with the Volunteer Coordinator.
