The Grey Robe Monks of St. Benedict

An Ecumenical and Inclusive Benedictine Confederation

Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about our order. If you do not find the answer to your question, please email us at admin@grosb.org.

Q: How did the Grey Robe Monks come into being?
A: The Grey Robe Monks of St. Benedict began in 2002 in response to a growing need for individuals from all walks of life to experience a spirituality outside the normal methodology of organized religion.  In 2002 the Grey Robes formed under the jurisdiction of the United Catholic Church and the Most Rev. Robert Bowman. 

Q: Who are the Grey Robe Monks of St. Benedict?
A: The Grey Robe Monks are comprised of members, both men and women, from various Christian traditions.  All of our members come to us as seekers who wish a closer relationship with God.  Some of our members are clergy from various jurisdictions.  Most are married or in committed relationships and are professional people living in the secular world.  All of the members follow the simple commands to Love God and Love neighbor through compassion and the practice of radical hospitality.

Q: What is radical hospitality?
A: One of of the primary commands of St. Benedict was the practice of hospitality.  Benedict taught that each person was to be received as if they were Christ?  The Grey Robes take this command seriously.  As such, we accept everyone for who they are and where they are in life.   All are welcome to participate fully in the life of the community and in the sacramental life of our jurisdiction regardless of gender, religious background, sexual orientation, married or single.  But, especially to the disenfranchised members from their church of origin

Q: What is the jurisdiction you speak of?
A: The Grey Robe Monks of St. Benedict is a confederation of individuals under the Independent Catholic Church of the West, (ICCW).  The ICCW is an independent/autocephalous Apostolic Church who reject the dogmatic and legalistic approach to Christianity.   Jesus came to liberate creation form the narrow approaches to one orthodoxy and one authority.  All of the clergy of the ICCW are ordained in Apostolic Succession. 

The Grey Robe Monks therefore, are under the episcopal authority and protection of the presiding bishop of the ICCW.  For more information on the ICCW please go to www.iccwest.com.

Q: Where are the Grey Robe Monks located?
A: The Grey Robe Monks are located throughout the United States.  Since we are a monastery without walls, we do not live in common.  However, there are communities and groups who come together for prayer, worship and outreach.  Theses communities are located in Goodyear and Mesa, AZ; Atlanta, GA; Sacramento, CA; Portland, OR; and a new community forming in Denver Colorado. 

Q: Where can I get more information about the order and possible membership?
A: If you are interested in becoming a member of the Grey Robe Monks, please complete the application on the inquiry page of the website.  Or email our Inquiry Master at inquiry@grosb.org.