Interview with Man

There is a place in Second Life where you can find peace - it's called the Monastery of Felix Meritis. Hi, my name is Man Monnett. I'm the founder of this Monastery.

History

When I first joined Second Life two years ago, I did the usual commercial things. I went shopping, bought ‘stuff’, and sought out the normal activities that I would pursue in the real word. All of these real-life choices were available, but were neither particularly satisfying nor interesting. They were also not inspirational and seemed blatantly commercial, even aggressive at times and very superficial. After a while I found Second Life an empty and rather frustrating experience. I actually stumbled upon the valley where the Monastery is built and was immediately impressed by the peace and tranquility. It was quite a different feeling than anywhere else I had been in Second Life – which is why I decided to build the monastery. I simply wanted to capture this spiritual feeling and show a new experience in Second Life. It started with a small court. But it has been re-built twice since then, and has grown in size with each re-design as neighbors and various people have donated their land when they saw what a unique and safe haven it is. With every construction the complex became more and more realistic reflecting the architecture and art of southern Europe. With a minor in Renaissance Art I am particularly drawn to that period in history from 1200 – 1500. Hence, the creative inspiration for the Monastery has its roots there. Over the years I have visited numerous monasteries and cathedrals around Europe. Mostly Italy, France and Spain that have influenced the design. During this time period in history – Early Renaissance, the perception of God slowly transformed towards a more humanistic image. ‘God does not live in a dark church but has given you His Holy Spirit to guide you.’

Today

The monastery of Felix Meritis and its peaceful valley are visited regularly by a growing group of people. Almost half the cloister is inhabited and it has over 150 paid group members. Many of the visitors return weekly and bring friends and family. People give all sorts of things; they light candles, bring flowers, give money, and even donate their complete inventory including their land when they leave Second Life. In a way it’s almost like a real monastery. Although it is a non-denominational monastery and we welcome people of all faiths. It is not an ‘order’ and has no direction or agenda, beyond that it is meant to be a safe place where one can experience their spirituality without rules and restrictions. It provides a path to God without any obstacles such as language, education, cultural differences, or personal history. Therefore there are no ceremonies or services other than a listening ear. People can call the monks to talk to. Every monk will answer the situation with his own personal knowledge and caracter. There are also monthly group meetings by invitation but there is no agenda, and the interaction is spontaneous. And to repeat myself, we are Christian but do not ‘practice’ a religion. I believe that God is within each of us. And it is up to each of us as individuals to develop our own spirituality and find our unique faith in what we do and who we are.

Future

I have no immediate plans for now. I was considering building a retreat on an island, but am quite happy where we are right now, in the middle of Second Life. I’m content to see what happens, and go with the flow. I let myself being guided by what I’m told to do.

Thanks to Susan Young for interviewing me.