St. Benedict (480-550) is the patron saint of our order, and his Rule has greatly affected the course of Western Monasticism. The little we know of his life comes from the writings of Pope Gregory the Great. Benedict was born in Nursia, Italy and later was educated in Rome. However, the moral decay of the time made him flee Rome and become a hermit. Yet disciples sought him out because of his holiness.
Eventually he agreed to establish monasteries, the most famous being Monte Cassino. It was there that he wrote his Rule, eventually died, and was buried beside the grave of his beloved sister, St. Scholastica.
The key elements of his Rule are seeking God, personal and community prayer, work, balance in life, stewardship, respect for persons, hospitality, peace, and community life. This amazing Rule has guided many monastics over the centuries, as well as laypeople – Benedictine oblates in particular. This Rule, based on Scriptures, is the guide for our lives at St. Scholastica Monastery.
All are welcome to join us for the Eucharist celebrating the feast of Saint Benedict at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11.
Read more about St. Benedict’s life and his Holy Rule here in our website. A copy of the full Holy Rule can be read online at the web site of the Order of St. Benedict. An abridged, illustrated version, The Rule of St. Benedict, illustrations by +Sister Mary Charles McGough of our Community and calligraphy by oblate Meridith Schifsky, can be purchased from our gift shop. Blog first published July, 2011.
Sister Jeanne Ann Weber
Sister Jeanne Ann Weber is Director of Liturgy. She has experience as a teacher, advocate for women and children, giving retreats and spiritual direction. She is a member of the Shalom Spiritual Direction Training Program at the Monastery.