Mountain Companion Description

Affiliation:

Franciscan Friars of Mt. Irenaeus

 

Purpose of Ministry:

To become part of the life and ministry of Mt. Irenaeus, an active contemplative Franciscan place of prayerful hospitality and live among the resident community. To provide a setting for Companions to grow spiritually - to deepen their relationship with God by making a commitment to live simply in a communal life in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. Our mission is to join with Jesus Christ in “making all things new.” (Rev. 21:5) 

 

The Placement:

At Mt. Irenaeus/Franciscan Mountain Retreat, Companions serve in a variety of capacities as servant leaders such as ministerial outreach, administration, care for the land, general office, hospitality, housekeeping, maintenance and repairs, marketing, etc. We work extensively but not exclusively with college-aged students. Companions must be able to relate to this population and a wide spectrum of people in a loving, non-judgmental way. We seek to make “Church” accessible to all so our ministry is more based on relationship formation than programming.

 

Length of Service:

A minimum of one year with a 90 day probationary period during the first year of service. Renewable annually, by mutual consent.

 

Requirements: 

Catholic or other Christian, singles, men and women; without dependents; US citizens or permanent residents. Energy and interest in working with college-aged people; references, interviews, background checks and medical examination.

Mature, well-balanced and spiritually motivated individuals in good health and free of financial, family and job responsibilities. Flexibility, commitment to grow spiritually, sense of humor and be involved in the life and ministry of Mt. Irenaeus.

 

Living Arrangements:

Private bedroom with private bath down the hall. Shared recreation area and community dining. Room & board, health insurance and living allowance of $500/month; two week vacation time during the first year.

 

Spiritual Development:

Companions agree to participate in the following events which are basic and necessary components of the Ministry intended to enhance the Companion’s ongoing spiritual growth: Days of Renewal, Annual Retreat; Community prayer and Eucharist; ideally Spiritual Direction once a month.

 

Training:

Orientation to the life and ministry of the Mountain is provided. Training for specific job assignments provided when required.

 

Focus:

There are three primary elements considered in this commitment: Spiritual Development - growth in the spiritual life is a vital aspect of the Mountain Companion Ministry; Mission/Service - a commitment to service within the charism of Franciscan hospitality, simplicity and prayer; Community life – a willingness to meet the challenges of differing personalities and styles and to grow as a person.

 

Other:

If you have recently gone through or are going through a crisis such as a divorce, death, loss of job, etc., we ask that there be a waiting period of one year before applying. Usually a great deal of time and psychological space is needed in order to deal with issues raised by such a crisis. Most people find that living and working in community is a completely different kind of life style from what they have formerly experienced and one that calls for adaptability. This life style does not allow for time and space to deal with the types of crisis mentioned, but rather demands that one's life be very centered so that one can better serve others.

Participation in the Mountain Companion Ministry is the equivalent of a full time job, so members cannot expect to participate in additional employment. Schooling that conflicts with community functions is also not appropriate.

Pets cannot be accommodated.

A car may be beneficial and a clean driving record is important.