Perspective on Justice

Christ calls us to embrace the world and its people, regardless of differences. The Rule of Benedict expresses this call through its focus on providing hospitality and care for all people. By creating an environment of respect for each person and sharing resources with those in need, we can promote an awareness of justice and equality in our own community and around the world.

Perspective on Simplicity

Simplicity is integral to Benedictine spirituality. The Rule of Benedict calls us to devote our hearts to God; this single-heartedness can be challenging in busy, everyday life. Seeking to simplify our lives clears room in the heart and mind for reception of the Spirit, allowing us to turn to God and one another in love.

Perspective on Hospitality

The Rule of Benedict calls us to open our hearts continuously to others (RB 53). Acceptance of new people and new ideas allows us to deepen our knowledge of God and each other. This tradition of hospitality offers rich opportunities for the renewal of relationships in the new year.

Perspective on Peace

Peace comes primarily from within a person – more than from the external environment. It comes from the attitudes we bring to life. During times of stress, we can change our thoughts by focusing on a word or an experience that brings us peace. Benedictine peace comes from seeking peace. Benedict writes in the Rule: seek after peace and pursue it.

Perspective on The Rule

While developed in the 6th century, The Rule of Benedict remains an up-to-date invitation to open your heart to God. The Rule summons us to recognize the dignity of labor, the challenge of responsibility and the proper use of resources. It provides a framework to seek balance and find an everyday path to God. It offers accessible means to explore the value of a life lived seeking and serving God, "...preferring nothing to the love of Christ."

Perspective on Balance

The Rule of Benedict offers insights on balance for everyday life. Balance is an outcome of attending to the whole person and providing good order “so that everything may be done at the proper time” (RB 47.1). Benedictine spirituality addresses the whole person (body, mind and spirit) by ordering the day to provide time for prayer, study and work. This holistic view shapes a way of life conducive to growth and integration.

Perspective on Awareness

The Prologue to The Rule of Benedict begins with a call for the seeker to “Listen carefully” and reminds us how life is a teacher of universal truths. While we take a breath to find focus, we seek to be aware of God’s presence and of that which we are being called to do. Once we open our minds and our hearts to a wisdom beyond our own, we can be guided to make a thoughtful decision and put it into action.