Associates of Holy Cross
The Associates of Holy Cross is a group of more than 1,000 persons - men and women, clergy and lay, of many different Christian denominations - who are associated with the Order of the Holy Cross. Membership in the Associates involves both the observance of a rule of life and a relationship with our community.
The Rule for Associates sets out a pattern of spiritual observance that is both full and flexible. It is clear that the Rule is not intended to be a rigid set of prescriptions, but a guideline to the living of the spiritual life. Associates are required to develop their own personal expression of the Rule, incorporating monastic principles, values, and disciplines that fit their own life situation as described in the Rule. Adaptations and adjustments in the living of the Rule are normal as the circumstances of our lives change, but in making these adjustments, the pattern of balance that is characteristic of Benedictine spirituality is regarded as primary. Nevertheless, it remains true that the Rule does require a sizable commitment of time and energy, and you need to consider this.
Your relationship to our community also needs to be considered. The Order of the Holy Cross lives the Benedictine life in a particular way, as is true of each different Benedictine congregation or community. You need to have at least enough familiarity with our life and spirit to know why you want to be associated with us rather than with some other community. People who live within easy traveling distance of one of our monasteries and have never visited us should plan a visit, preferably of two or three days, to become acquainted with our life and with the brothers. If you live farther away from one of our houses this will obviously need to be modified, but you should at least know something of what Holy Cross is like, and you should plan to visit one of our houses when your personal circumstances permit. All Associates are expected to make some financial commitment to the Order.