ABSTRACT
In Europe, Christian monasticism is often identified with the vocations crisis and sometimes the closing of monasteries. Monastic life could, in this sense, be considered an endangered species. Not only do communities have trouble attracting vocations, but consecrated monastic life also has to endure society’s calling into question of some of its cherished values, such as life engagement and celibacy. But this impression is not the only aspect of contemporary monasticism. Parallel to this, we observe the foundations of new forms of monastic life, the reinvention of tradition in some historical communities and more and more interest on the part of society in monastic life. It is therefore useful to look into this world and question its present challenges.
