Incarnation Priory - Berkeley

OHC Community life began in Berkeley in 1972 at the invitation of then Dean Frederick Houk Borsch who asked us to establish a monastic presence on the campus of the Church Divinity School of the Pacific. The monks would provide spiritual direction, a sense of community, and a connection with a wider aspect of the Church for the seminary community. The Order would have a place where brothers could be trained for the ordained ministry as well as taking opportunity to share in the academic life of C.D.S.P. The house (part of the Deanery) was initially known as Holy Cross Priory, then as St. Dominic's Priory. In 1977 the Order formulated a Covenant with the Camaldolese Benedictines: a covenant that committed both communities to work together in the areas of reunion, mutual prayer, communication and exchange.

In 1979 the covenant "took on flesh" with the Camaldolese Brothers and the OHC Brothers sharing a priory which was renamed Incarnation Priory. There was no attempt to blend structures or liturgies, but both communities shared in the prayer of each other and fraternally supported each other. In 1983 Incarnation Priory relocated to its present home. The Camaldolese Brothers moved into their present home in 1993. Happily both communities continue to be bound together in prayer, fraternal affection, and a commitment to living a Christian life according to the rule of St. Benedict.The Charisms of each community (St. Romuald's Rule-Camaldolese and Fr. Huntington's Rule-Holy Cross) enrich one another.

The Brothers at Incarnation Priory observe regular times of prayer and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist; all are welcome. A ministry to students is provided in making available living space for a modest donation. Brothers trained in spiritual direction do so with many peopleespecially with seminarians and clergy. Some brothers have assisted in parish work, 12-step recovery programs, and home care work. An apartment is available for guest ministry. OHC brothers engaged in seminary work may do this at C.D.S.P. The covenant relationship with our Camaldolese Brothers continues as both communities regularly meet for prayer and fellowship.