I try to live as a modern monastic. I’m not a monk in the traditional sense of the word. I admire all those who have taken up special vows and have dedicated themselves to a cloistered way of living with much prayer and reflection. Alas, such is not for me. I live, work, and play in a modern world. I have a modern family who I love very much and care for each day. I have a modern work situation where I wear multiple professional hats. I have a modern schedule, which is busier than ever. I have modern responsibilities–taking out the garbage, mowing the lawn, picking up after my son.

But in the midst of this busy modern life, I attempt to live monastically. I take on a monk-like posture in my daily life. I subscribe to monk-like perspectives and I try to incorporate monk-like practices while living in a modern world. Such has helped me to stay deeply connected to Christ that I may live better for Him every day and do His Kingdom work with love and power.

My monastic journey started in April 2023. I had become quite fed up with my unimpressive relationship with Christ, my ungodly attitude and behavior towards people, and my constant battle with sin. I was willing to try anything to revive my soul. That’s when I stumbled upon the desert fathers and mothers–men and women who sought the Lord in the seclusion of the desert away from the hustle and bustle of what was their modern world at the time. Learning about their stories and their unique relationships with God inspired me to take my own faith seriously and to spend the appropriate amount of time with the Lord each day to have a close and vibrant relationship with Him. I found that connecting deeply with God through ancient and monastic practices had revived my soul.

In this blog, I hope to share with you what I’ve learned about trying to live monastically in a modern world. I hope to hear from you too should you attempt to live monastically as well. We can learn from each other.

I am Barnabas the Monastic. These are my writings and reflections, a gift to the modern world.