If you are beginning to think seriously about becoming a monk at Shasta Abbey, here is some information for you to consider. First of all, we use the term “monk” for both male and female monastics. This term implies leaving the household life, living in the monastery and ordination into the Buddhist priesthood. The vocation to be a monk requires a wholehearted commitment. All postulants and priests of the Order are celibate.

In order to begin the process of entering the monastic life, you must first be familiar with our practice, and you should have received the Precepts (usually at the Ten Precepts Retreat) and thereby become a lay Buddhist. You are asked to spend time in residence at the Abbey. At some point you should talk to the Novice Master about what you have in mind, what it means to be a monk, and what you need to do if this is what your wish. You will be told that to become a monk at Shasta Abbey means that you will be taking the Abbess as your Master, unless your taking another Master has been fully discussed and agreed upon.

If monastic training at Shasta Abbey seems to be the right path for you, please read First Thoughts on Becoming a Monk 2022 and/or ask to contact the Novice Master for further information.