Monastère Notre-Dame de Mistassini, Trappist monastery in Dolbeau-Mistassini, Canada
Monastère Notre-Dame de Mistassini is a Trappist monastery located along the shores of Lac Saint-Jean, combining traditional monastic architecture with surrounding farmland. The property was designed to support the community's self-sufficiency through farming and craft production.
Founded in 1892 by monks from Oka monastery, it received abbey status in 1935. A major shift came with its relocation to a new site five kilometers away in 1980.
The monastery upholds Cistercian traditions through daily prayer, agricultural labor, and the making of goods according to Trappist principles. The monks follow a structured rhythm that weaves together prayer, physical work, and silence.
The grounds are generally open to visitors, though monks keep to their schedules for prayer and work in certain areas. The chocolate workshop and on-site shop allow visitors to purchase locally made goods.
The monastery operates its own chocolate factory, producing specialty confections including seasonal chocolate-covered blueberries. This production sustains the community financially while drawing visitors with a taste for artisanal sweets.
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