“As often as anything important is to be done in the monastery, the abbot shall call the whole community together and himself explain what the business is; and after hearing the advice of the brothers, let him ponder it and follow what he judges the wiser course, The reason why we have said all should be called for counsel is that the Lord often reveals what is better to the younger. (RB 3.1-3)
A somewhat longer quote for today’s reflection to give a flavor of what Benedict had in mind regarding the decision-making process of the community. While it is up to the leader to make the final decision, it is also necessary to receive the advice of all. As we often hear, we each hold a piece of the truth. It is in our sharing of the pieces of truth that our shared wisdom comes to bear on a decision.
Benedict’s inclusion of the youngest members in the process is quite a new idea in ancient Rome! It is often easy to forget that someone with a fresh perspective can bring us into a new way of thinking, breaking from the “we’ve always done it this way” mentality. In the verses which follow the quote above, Benedict reminds the monks that all are to speak with all humility and not to defend one’s own opinion obstinately. This, too, is a new way of doing things – even in our day!
Benedict trusts that his followers, having been formed in the monastic way, are able to speak the truth lovingly from their hearts and are able to listen and choose wisely.
Sr. Christine, OSB
A somewhat longer quote for today’s reflection to give a flavor of what Benedict had in mind regarding the decision-making process of the community. While it is up to the leader to make the final decision, it is also necessary to receive the advice of all. As we often hear, we each hold a piece of the truth. It is in our sharing of the pieces of truth that our shared wisdom comes to bear on a decision.
Benedict’s inclusion of the youngest members in the process is quite a new idea in ancient Rome! It is often easy to forget that someone with a fresh perspective can bring us into a new way of thinking, breaking from the “we’ve always done it this way” mentality. In the verses which follow the quote above, Benedict reminds the monks that all are to speak with all humility and not to defend one’s own opinion obstinately. This, too, is a new way of doing things – even in our day!
Benedict trusts that his followers, having been formed in the monastic way, are able to speak the truth lovingly from their hearts and are able to listen and choose wisely.
Sr. Christine, OSB
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