Trappist monks of the Abbey have manual work as an integral part of monastic life. They make products to sell and be self-sustained for their needs, to focus on Prayer, contemplation, and ministry. In some cities, they run a bakery that supports their mission and serves the community. Thus, their lives are a blessing to many. One religion teaches that its religious leaders should beg and eat. There is neither dignity for labour nor the labourer. Hence, no technological progress. But Paul warns: If you do not work, do not eat. (II Thessalonians 3:10)
Historical context: Peter and John said that they had no money but the Name of Jesus and demonstrated God’s power, making the paralysed man walk. (Acts 3:6) However, as the Church became powerful, there was ritualism, traditions, and corruption. Pious Christians who were annoyed by this retreated and created monasteries outside the cities, where they could pray, copy the scripture, and serve children and the sick who came to them.
Agriculture: The monks believed that nature is God’s creation that is sustained by the inherent rules of the creator. Hence, nature could be wisely used for progress. Hence, they worked hard, innovated, and created new tools to make progress. They built embankments, reclaimed marshes for agriculture, and spread agriculture in Europe. The first heavy plough was their invention.
Healthcare: They prepared ointments, medicines, and other medicinal products to provide health care for the sick, needy, and old.
Inventors: One order of Monks, Cistercians, invented the water clock, eyeglasses, accounting, and even Parmesan cheese. Trappist monks refined brewing techniques of beer, as it was a daily necessity to drink instead of contaminated water.
Vine growing: In order to celebrate the Eucharist daily, monks needed a steady supply of wine; hence, they developed technologies to grow and preserve.
Abolition of slavery: All men were called to work in the land, perform hard labour, and operate millstones for the monks. Earlier, these tasks were considered degrading, and slaves only did them. Thus, slavery was abolished, and men became productive.
Do I understand the meaning of work and do productive work?