Double monasteries, a unique fusion of communities for monks and nuns under one roof, are a fascinating part of ecclesiastical history!
Originating in the 4th century, these institutions were prevalent in both Eastern and Western Christendom, offering a shared space for spiritual growth and service while maintaining gender segregation.
In these spiritual havens, monks and nuns led their lives in close proximity, often governed by an Abbess. This arrangement allowed the spiritual needs of the nuns to be attended to by the priests of the male community, bridging a gap that single-gender monasteries couldn’t span. Coldingham Priory in Scotland and Barking Abbey in London stood as notable examples to this innovative model.
Despite their benefits, double monasteries faced scrutiny and eventual decline, primarily due to concerns over impropriety. The Second Council of Nicaea in 787 marked the beginning of the end for these institutions, decreeing, āDouble monasteries are henceforth forbidden.ā This directive aimed to curb instances of “incontinence” spurred by the close living quarters of men and women.
However, the concept didn’t vanish entirely. After a period of dormancy, there was a resurgence of double monasteries in the 12th century, spearheaded by reformers like Robert of Arbrissel. This revival saw a nuanced approach, with stricter regulations ensuring a more disciplined coexistence between monks and nuns.
Today, while the traditional double monastery is a rarity, the spiritual camaraderie and communal harmony they epitomized continue to inspire.
These institutions remind us of the church’s evolving journey in fostering communal sanctity and the continuous quest for balance between communal living and spiritual integrity. Double monasteries, with their rich legacy, pose an intriguing question to the modern ecclesiastical community: how do we harmonize communal diversity with spiritual unity?
Photo credit: Public Domain via picryl | Roland zh via Wikimedia Commons
