The three evangelical counsels are the traditional vows which all monastics make. They are chastity, poverty, and obedience. Let’s look at each, but from a non-Catholic viewpoint.
Chastity
The Oxford English Dictionary defines chastity as “the state or practice of refraining from extramarital, or especially from all, sexual intercourse.” This would include refraining from masturbation.
Poverty
Poverty is different from destitution. Poverty, rightly understood, means living minimalistic and simply. Not having more than you really need. As Paul and Karen Fredette write, “The hermit vows to live with only the barest necessities, witnessing to the joy of having little and desiring less.”
Obedience
Obedience is a little more tricky. For it usually means absolute obedient to a man, usually a bishop. With all the abuse scandals in the church, this is usually not wise. But here I take it to mean obedience to God and one’s Plan of Life.
So these are the three evangelical counsels. However, again departing from the Roman Catholic position, I do not make vows to follow them, but rather I make resolutions that I dedicate myself to following. For Jesus said, “But I say, do not make any vows! (Matt. 5:34 NLT).
Prayer of Dedication
When you are ready to make the commitment, pray the following with sincerity:
Dear heavenly Father, I dedicate my life to the Lord Jesus Christ through a life of chastity, poverty, and obedience. Lord God, give me the wisdom and strength to fulfill my resolution. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hermits don’t like to talk about themselves, but I suppose you want to know a little about me.
I became a Christian in 1983, attended Bible school, and eventually earned a Doctorate in Ministry. I served as a Protestant minister for 27 years and also spent about a decade practicing Buddhism.
In 2005, I was baptized into the Catholic Church, but have since joined the Episcopal Church. I live in the desert southwest of the United States with my wife and cat.
