Dating while discerning religious vocations was just one topic discussed at an event that also included conversations about the best place to meet other single Catholics and today’s gender dynamics.
Pope Francis warned against contemplative orders using defensive, nostalgic strategies “when it comes to reflecting on a whether a monastery should be saved or abandoned, on community life or about vocations.”
The Christmas fair in Madrid was the work of Fundación Contemplare, a nonprofit set up to help Spain’s monasteries continue a legacy of gourmet baked goods and handmade candies but also, more importantly, to support contemplative life and reconnect monasteries with the world around them.