"I tend to the abbey's herbarium and administer to the sick."

While Cadafael deems this his own weakness, that he's a lot better at the labora part of the Benedictine doctrine, he doesn't fret much over this particular vice. There are many better suited for prayer in his congregation. Merciful God, in His infinite wisdom, has made him uniquely qualified for work among those whose mortal dwellings need help. Though, he'd never neglect their immortal souls, it's the bodies he usually works with first. All too often, both sides of a person require assistance.

Speaking of the sick.

"I couldn't help, but notice that the infirmary in the castle is very busy. Was there a battle or an outbreak recently?"