Trappists

The Trappists: Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance

The Trappists, officially designated as the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance (OCSO), are a prominent Catholic religious order of cloistered monastics. They emerged from a reform movement within the broader Cistercian Order, seeking a more rigorous adherence to monastic principles. The order's identity is deeply rooted in the reforms initiated by Abbot Armand Jean le Bouthillier de Rancé at La Trappe Abbey in Normandy, France, beginning in 1664. This movement eventually led to the formal constitution of the Trappists as a distinct religious order in 1892, though they continue to follow the foundational Rule of Saint Benedict.

History and Development

The reform movement that gave rise to the Trappists began at La Trappe Abbey, where Armand Jean le Bouthillier de Rancé, after a profound personal conversion, introduced a strict regimen focused on penitence, hard manual labor, and isolation from worldly affairs. This austere lifestyle was designed to foster spiritual growth and self-sufficiency. The reforms spread to other Cistercian monasteries, which adopted the name "Trappist" in reference to their origin. During the French Revolution, monasteries were confiscated, leading to exiles and the establishment of communities in new locations, such as Val-Sainte in Switzerland. Over time, differing observances led to the formation of separate Trappist congregations, which were eventually unified into the Order of Reformed Cistercians of Our Lady of La Trappe in 1892.

Monastic Life and Observance

Trappists are known for their dedication to the "Strict Observance" of the Rule of Saint Benedict. This entails a life of prayer, contemplation, and significant manual labor. While they do not take a vow of absolute silence, conversation is minimized, and a monastic sign language is often employed. Their diet is notably austere, featuring a complete abstinence from "flesh meats." Daily life is structured around the Liturgy of the Hours, with early rising for Vigils and extensive periods dedicated to meditation, prayer, and work. The manual labor aspect is crucial, serving both to support the community and as a spiritual discipline, with notable products including high-quality Trappist beers, cheeses, and other foodstuffs.

Notable Figures and Expansion

Several significant figures are associated with the Trappist order. Thomas Merton, a prolific author and theologian, entered the Abbey of Gethsemani and became one of the most widely read spiritual writers of the 20th century. Saint Rafael Arnáiz Barón was the first Trappist to be canonized, recognized for his deep piety despite illness. The order has seen considerable expansion, with the number of monasteries more than doubling globally in recent decades, extending significantly into Africa, Asia, and Latin America, though the total number of monks and nuns has decreased slightly.