For a Benedictine, the restrictions imposed by the pandemic have meant a time of refreshment and abundance, of a deeper appreciation of the monastic life of solitude, silence and joy

Her Majesty the Queen spoke to the nation with remarkable compassion during the lockdown. Acutely sensitive to the pain of separation people were experiencing, she spoke of the hope of meeting again, of re-establishing communion. She also recommended meditation and prayer. That too is communion, for prayer in union with the suffering Christ is a oneness with all of suffering humanity. That was our particular calling at this time: to offer prayer, especially the sacrifice of Christ in the Mass, in solidarity with all who were troubled. Yet it has also been a privileged time of retreat for us, of recentering to equip us better to reach out to others when no longer separated from them in the flesh.

Here, in our monastery of Our Lady of Quarr on the Isle of Wight (pioneer of pandemic precautions), it has brought an extraordinary clarity of vision and grace. Our monastic vows have come into brilliantly sharp focus. These (and they are specifically Benedictine) are: stability, conversion of life and obedience. Our calling to be true to these is a calling to a good and happy life. This works in ordinary circumstances; in these extraordinary circumstances it has worked wonders. The lockdown has shown us their essence; it has obliged us to be faithful to what is central to them; it has made us truly happy.