CowPi Journal

While searching for some Benedictine weblogs, I found the following list of quotes highlighting Benedictine spirituality at One House. The original source is unknown, but the quotes come from the Rule of Benedict. The use of the word “rule” is meant as a “guide”, not a list of do’s and dont’s. Karen may describe the “rule” best as a “‘trellis’, a framework for growth.”

St. Benedict’s teachings provide a gospel way of life for women and men.

Listen—To hear keenly and sensitively the voices of persons and all created things.
“Listen with the ear of your heart.” RB Prologue

Awareness of God—To look for God not in the abstract but in the ordinary events of every day.
“…every time you begin a good work, you must pray to God most earnestly to bring it to perfection.” RB Prologue

Community Living—To become who we are by our relationships with others.
“The younger monks must respect their seniors, and the seniors must love their juniors.” RB 63

Respect for Persons—To respect each person regardless of class, background or professional skill.
“No one is to pursue what is judged best for oneself, but instead, what is better for someone else.” RB 72

Hospitality—to offer warmth, acceptance, and joy in welcoming others.
“Let all be received as Christ.” RB 53

Dignity of Work—To appreciate the dignity of work as a share in God’s creation.
“…they live by the labor of their hands.” RB 48

Stewardship—To appreciate and to care lovingly for all the goods of this place.
“Regard all utensils as if they were the sacred vessels of the altar.” RB 31

Moderation—To be content with living simply and finding balance in work, prayer and leisure.
“All things are to be done with moderation.” RB 48

Stability—To cultivate rootedness and a shared sense of mission.
“To stand firm in one’s promises.” RB 58

Justice—To work toward a just order in our immediate environment and in the larger society.
“…that in all things God may be glorified.” RB 57

Peace—To strive for peace on all levels: with self, with neighbor, and with God.
“Let peace be your quest and aim.” RB Prologue