Whatever misgivings I had about being forced to become a monk were swiftly allayed as I encountered the reality of Lismore Abbey. Before setting foot in the place I had no idea of how many laymen frequented its corridors. One of the first things Abbot Mo-Chuaróc told me as he organised sleeping for me was that my residence in the monastery would be conducted in respect of the regulations for lay visitors. This was a relief because it meant my days would not be governed by bells and services. Of the nine divine offices, laymen were expected to attend Prime and Vespers, which effectively corresponded to dawn and dusk and this suited me very well, as I was ever an early riser. It would also be an opportunity to learn more about the faith. After consenting to baptism, apart from my conversatio
