Father Matteo Ferrari, the head of the Camaldoli monastery located in Tuscany, Italy, has raised concerns regarding the monks' use of digital technology, particularly streaming services like Netflix and social media. In a recent statement, he urged the monks living in seclusion to avoid these platforms, emphasizing that their rooms are meant for prayer rather than entertainment. He expressed disappointment that many monks reportedly watch Netflix while on retreat, calling this behavior sinful.

Ferrari elaborated on his views in a lengthy post on Facebook, where he highlighted the challenges that social media and streaming services pose to the monastic and spiritual life. He pointed out that platforms like Instagram and TikTok create distractions that can hinder the monks' focus on their spiritual duties. He firmly stated, "We cannot pretend that this challenge does not exist," acknowledging the need for monks to confront these temptations head-on.

The comments from Ferrari come amid an increasing recognition of how digital technologies can foster dependency. He argued that such tools should be avoided entirely to maintain the integrity of monastic life. Camaldoli monastery, founded in the early 11th century by Saint Romuald, is set in the serene surroundings of the Casentino Forests, which makes the use of technology even more at odds with its tranquil mission of contemplation and prayer.