Individuals and groups are invited to share their time and talents at the monastery.  Since being established in 1874, volunteers have played a significant role in our ministries, both in Nauvoo, Illinois and the Quad Cities.  Our work is possible because of the many volunteers who join us in carrying out the Mission of St. Mary Monastery.

Our Volunteers

Our Sisters reflect a diverse monastic community formed by the Gospel and the Rule of St. Benedict.  Our Benedictine Values and the life we share in Christ empowers us to serve.  The volunteers of St. Mary Monastery join the Sisters, Oblates and employees in seeking God and creating sacred space within self, the community and the world.  

Volunteers Enjoy:

• Greeting visitors at the Welcome Desk

• Organizing books in the Library

• Assisting with Gift Shop

• Extending hospitality to all guests

• Gardening in the monastery grounds

• Serving through Special Events

• Welcoming retreatants at Benet House Retreat Center

• Visiting our Sisters in Healthcare

Inquire Today!

Help support the mission of St. Mary Monastery by becoming a volunteer.  For more information, contact benedictines@smmsisters.org

Live-In Volunteer Program

The Sisters of St. Mary Monastery invite you to spend time in our monastic community by joining our live in volunteer program.  

You will share in community prayer, Eucharist and Liturgy of the Hours, meals, and other community activities.  Using your skills and interests, you will work with us in our ministries, both at the monastery and in the wider community. 

Through our life of prayer and work, you will learn about Benedictine life, attend educational/spiritual programs and, if desired, receive spiritual direction. We will provide room and board.

Are You Interested In

…..   Seeking to deepen your spirituality 

….    Experiencing a more balanced life of prayer and work

….    Investing your time and gifts inside a monastic community

Ministry Opportunities

Our ministries range from retreat work to education, and parish work to campus ministry. We volunteer at the hospital, in food pantries and in other outreach to the poor.

We garden, maintain the grounds, keep house, staff our retreat center, and maintain our health care floor for elder Sisters. Your live in volunteer opportunities will depend upon your education, skills, experience and interests.

Benefits of the Live-In Volunteer Program

• Room in a private area of the Monastery

• Participation in Eucharist and Liturgy of the Hours (Community prayer)

• Sacred time and space for spiritual growth, personal prayer and spiritual direction, if desired.

• Interaction with the Sisters and shared meals in the Sisters Dining Room

For More Information, or to Apply

To apply, you will need to complete our application, provide references, and be a woman at least 21 years of age and in good physical health. A background check is required, and room and board are provided.  

Acceptance is made following a review of all submitted and verified information and a personal interview.  Volunteer opportunities are available for periods ranging from two weeks to one year.

To request an application or more information, contact the Benedictine Sisters of St. Mary Monastery, 2200 88th Ave. W., Rock Island, IL, 61201 at  Benedictines@smmsisters.org or (309) 283-2102.