Seen as an annex to the monk’s inner cell – the sanctuary of his soul, the monastic cell is, for the monk, a place of safety and retreat.

There also, in the secret of his heart, he elevates himself in spirit to the celestial Father, imploring His mercy for his brothers in the world and for himself. He remains, says Evagrius Ponticus, “separated from all and united to all”. The cell has a bare organization fostering contemplation: a table with a stool, a small bookcase, a bed, a cabinet and a washbasin. A red cross, without a representation of Christ, hangs on the wall, according to the wish of Father Muard. On the table, a small image of the Virgin Mary reminds the monk of the loving presence of his heavenly Mother.