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They're a group known for their simplistic, peaceful lifestyle yet, today, they were at federal court, taking on the state.
WGNO's Vanessa Bolano has been following this one for months.
The fate of the Saint Joseph Abby Woodwork's now lies in the hands of a New Orleans Federal Judge.
Since 2007, Benedictine Monks, like Brother Emmanuel Labrise, have been crafting caskets in St Tammany Parish
but this morning they were in federal court downtown standing behind those defending their job.
"We have as much right to sell our caskets in the state as anybody who sells caskets anywhere"
The monks are suing the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors who say in Louisiana only licensed funeral homes can sell caskets.
"This case is not about just the monks. We looked at the case as being a constitutional issue and the state board is charged with enforcing state law"
Attorneys representing the monks call the law irrational, unconstitutional, and say it prohibits them from earning a living.
"Consumers throughout the country have the ability to buy caskets from funeral directors, on the internet, from churches or monasteries."
"There is one state that denies consumers this opportunity, and that is the state of Louisiana."
"Since sales are available all over the country, third party casket sales, we don't feel like we are that unique in Louisiana not to allow it here also"
The trial ended earlier than anticipated just before lunch time. The monks say they'll be back tomorrow to pick up two caskets
they left inside the courtroom; caskets that they say help pay for their health and educational needs.
The Judge ordered both sides to file written briefs and a decision is expected as early as next month.
From Federal Court, Vanessa Bolano WGNO News.
So in the meantime, the monks say they will continue to sell their caskets.
If they lose, they could face fines, or even jail time.