Nestled in the serene Surrey Hills near Guildford, St Augustine’s Abbey, Chilworth is a radiant beacon of peace, prayer and joyful community life. Within its cloistered walls, the Benedictine monks live out their sacred vocation with a profound sense of unity and love, each monk contributing to the rhythm of monastic life. Under the gentle and steadfast leadership of Fr Abbot, every monk is encouraged to live fully the Rule of St Benedict — embracing prayer, work and mutual service with heartfelt devotion.

Daily life at the Abbey is marked by the harmony of silence and song, contemplation and happy camaraderie. But it is the simplicity of their shared life that reveals its deepest joy. Whether chanting the Divine Office, tending the garden or caring for guests and one another, every act is imbued with quiet dignity and prayerful care. The monastery kitchen, often a place of bustling community spirit, is no exception.

As Fr Abbot lovingly recounts: “When Dom John, our main monastery cook, is away on leave, the rest of the monks take it in turn to prepare lunch and supper for the other Brothers. Here are Fr John and Brother William today in the kitchen cooking lunch.”

Such moments reflect the essence of Chilworth’s Benedictine heart — a life where even the most ordinary tasks become extraordinary acts of love. Visitors and retreatants often leave with a deep sense of peace, inspired by the warmth, humility and unwavering joy that fill this holy place.

Keep up the good work dear brethren.