The Community of Jesus is an ecumenical Christian community in the Benedictine monastic tradition whose mission is to be a faithful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to glorify God through worship, the common life, and the creative arts. Through the centuries, Christians have gathered to form communities in which they have supported one another in prayer, work, and fellowship. On a small plot of land overlooking Rock Harbor, Massachusetts, that commitment has taken the form of an ecumenical Christian community in the Benedictine monastic tradition. Members of the Community make professions of commitment according to their Rule of Life, including vows of obedience, stability, and conversion of life. The worship of God, which has been at the heart of the Community’s life since its founding, has developed over the years into a full daily cycle of prayer in word and sacrament. The Eucharist is the Community’s principal act of worship. Presided over by one of the resident ordained clergy, the Eucharistic liturgy incorporates forms and prayers shared by most branches of the church, drawing from both early Christian sources and contemporary expressions. The Liturgy of the Hours (Divine Office) is the most frequent form of daily prayer. The Community gathers at designated hours—morning, noon, evening, and night—to worship with psalms, hymns, readings, and prayers using the ancient practice of Gregorian chant.
