For the Sake of Silence

Abstract

The Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance – better known as
“Trappists” after their famous monastery, Notre Dame de la Trappe – is the
strictest and most ascetic Order in the Catholic Church. In addition to vows
of poverty, chastity and obedience taken by all religious, Trappists bind
themselves to silence and stability – the latter vow requiring them to remain
in one monastery for life.