Prayerful Listening

Lectio divina is a prayerful reading of scripture, a way of spending time with the Word of God. Readings are slow and deliberate, allowing the Word to resonate within one’s heart and mind. The process itself has a rhythm that allows individuals time and space to find spiritual meaning beyond the literal text.

Lectio divina differs from traditional Bible study, spiritual reading or prayer because it requires a more concentrated interplay between listening, reflection and application of a specific passage.
When done on an individual basis, the process is organic. An individual follows the ebb and flow of their conversation with God, traversing through spoken word, gentle repetition, reflective prayer and rest. Throughout the process, the individual may feel challenged as God’s word touches one deeply.

When done as a group, the process becomes more structured into phases:

• During the first reading, the passage may be read aloud twice while each person gently listens for the word or phrase that speaks to them and touches their heart. After a period of silence, all share the word or phrase that has touched his or her heart.

• During the second reading (of the same scripture), an individual meditates on how the chosen word(s) touch their life. After personal reflection, individuals share how they have heard or perceived God reaching out to them.

• The third reading is followed by prayer about how the individual is being called to act in their daily life. The individual may then spend time in contemplation with God before praying for the person next to them.

Lectio divina seeks to teach more than the skill of listening. It teaches about the person within and allows individuals to unite with God. By making time in daily life for lectio divina, individuals can connect with their inner being, nurture a bond with God and create a strong relationship with Christ, ultimately resulting in a sense of clarity and understanding for their place in the world.

Ecumenical dialogue at Holy Wisdom Monastery

Is it possible to commit to more than one faith tradition? This October, nearly 40 people gathered at Holy wisdom Monastery to explore a cross-cultural phenomenon – multiple religious belonging.

Imagine a religious supermarket. Spiritual traditions of all shapes and sizes line the shelves. Will you choose just one to meet your spiritual needs? Or will you pick and choose among many to find nourishment?

Listen to Catherine Cornille, associate professor of comparative theology at Boston College, explore these questions and describe the different paths that can lead to spiritual wholeness.



Click here to download this presentation in iTunes.

Hospitality for all

Hospitality is rooted in the belief that Christ is present in the other. Benedict says Christ is especially present in the abbot or prioress, the guest and the sick. Hospitality at Holy Wisdom Monastery is manifest in inviting guests to prayer and the Eucharist and having Liturgy of the Hours prayer books that are easy for a newcomer to follow. We also practice hospitality by inviting guests to meals and to retreats. Our practice of inviting co-workers, volunteers, oblates, Sunday Assembly, Community of Benedict and others to participate with us in our work and prayer comes out of Benedictine hospitality.

Perspective on Spiritual Guidance

Spiritual guidance offers a faith-centered and confidential conversation in which you can become more attuned to God’s presence. You might come to spiritual guidance to reflect deeply on your experiences or to integrate spirituality into your daily life.

Distinct from counseling, the goal of spiritual guidance is not to solve life’s problems, but rather to increase awareness of how God is already active in an individual’s life. Spiritual guides are trained and experienced in helping others with their spiritual lives.

Before engaging a spiritual guide, it is helpful to reflect on your expectations for the experience:
• Is it essential that your guide have a background in a particular faith tradition?
• Would you feel more comfortable talking with a male or a female?
• How often can you meet with your spiritual guide?

In spiritual guidance sessions, it is essential to trust your instincts and to remain open. Your guide may introduce new methods of prayer or forms of expression, such as journaling or drawing. They will ask you to speak honestly and they will be responsive to your unique spiritual path. Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, guidance can help you notice and respond to God’s presence, deepening your connection to the sacred.

Community is key

Community is essential to Benedictine life. At Holy Wisdom Monastery, we put an emphasis on creating community in everything we do. Creating community informs the way we share Benedictine spirituality with others. It leads how we have structured our oblate community and the way we have invited members of Sunday Assembly to take responsibility for its life together. In community, we connect, listen and obey one another, we consider what is better for the other rather than better for oneself, "supporting with the greatest patience one another's weaknesses of body or behavior, and earnestly competing in obedience to one another." (RB 72:5-6)

A Message That Resonates

The Benedictine tradition lives through the centuries as testament to the strength and applicability of its message. The Rule of Benedict highlights the importance of a balance of daily work and prayer. The purpose of work is to provide service to others and an opportunity for personal development. A commitment to a balanced life is the backbone of Benedict’s document and this message still resonates among those who seek to incorporate spirituality into their everyday lives.

Relevance for the Rule

Today, The Rule of Benedict continues to serve as a guide for those who seek God individually and in community. Short in length, written in clear language and translated in many languages, it combines practical rules for living with pages of sublime spirituality. Suggesting ways to seek and celebrate God in daily life, the Rule fosters listening, hospitality, humility, embracing change, respect for people, learning, prayer and work. It envisions a community that works to support each person’s developing relationship with God and others.