Black Monks

Known as the Black Monks from the color of their habits, the vow chastity, and obedience, the “monastic vows.” The order is very old, stresses communal life and its spiritual benefits, and attracts upper class and educated people. They have monasteries in most cities, and often provide the clerks in the employ of lords who need their writing and math skills.

Many of the episcopal sees of England were founded and governed by the Benedictines, and no fewer than nine of the old cathedrals were served by the black monks of the priories attached to them. Monasteries served as hospitals and places of refuge for the weak and homeless.
The Benedictines, officially the Order of Saint Benedict (Latin: Ordo Sancti Benedicti, abbreviated as OSB), are a monastic Catholic religious order of monks and nuns that follow the Rule of Saint Benedict. They are also sometimes called the Black Monks, in reference to the color of the members' religious habits.

Type

Religious, Monastic Order