I just came back from spending 24 hours at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina as part of a series that will air on our newscasts in May.  This was a fascinating experience and I have nothing but tremendous admiration for the 23 monks who live at the monastery, dedicating every ounce of their being to God.

Most surprising was the monks' personalities.  I figured that because they all share a communal lifestyle and purpose, that they were all the same.   In fact, every one has a distinct personality.  One of the most interesting monks was Brother Patric (without a 'k'), who recently joined the monastery after being a jazz pianist in Oakland.  Another, 92-year-old Regis, has been at New Clairvaus since around the time the more famous Regis (Philbin) was being born. He's been there for 50 years.

The typical day in the life of monk is plain, simple and downright boring to those on the outside world.  There is no television allowed and they spend up to four hours each day praying to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit during seven daily services.  They also labor in the walnut and prune fields, cook and clean and do all of the necessary tasks to sustain life.

My series -- "A Monk's Life" -- airs May 5-7 on Action News.