Reception of Guests

Great care and concern are to be shown in receiving poor people and pilgrims, because in them more particularly Christ is received; our very awe of the rich guarantees them special respect. RB80.53.15 The hospitality that Benedict is calling forth in community is an openning of myself, my life, my home, my comfort for the sake of the other...no matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable. He actually recommends that extra kindness and care be shown to those who are least likely to be the "desired" guest--the poor, the traveler, the elderly, the young, the sick. These guests require a little extra effort on my part because they come needier. Benedict makes reference to Matthew 25 in his instructions for the care of the guest since Christ is to be received in all who show up at our doors--no matter how hard it is to see Christ. There are some among us for whom this type of open welcome comes naturally. It is as if they were born with an innate ability to be welcoming and open to all and everyone who crosses their path. That is a true talent. My mom was like that...she was able to see beyond outward appearances and to treat everyone as a treasured friend. This skill is present even to this day in the number of people that my parents know from the neighborhood, church, and town that consider my parents among their special friends. I would like to believe that I learned that skill from my parents and am continuing to grow in that. When I am attentive to my surroundings, I am able to be open to all I meet. I find that most when I am traveling and fellow passengers strike up conversations with me along the way. I always feel richer for the experience of openning myself up to others. How can I be more open to Christ in my life today in others? Sr. Catherine, OSB

Tardiness in Community

Today's selection comes from Chapter 43 in the Holy Rule, "Tardiness at the Work of God or at Table."

From the beginning of the chapter, Benedict emphasizes the importance of being on time to two of the major community events every day--prayers and meals. In any group, there is an amount of order and structure that needs to be in place just so there can be smooth functioning.

Benedict recommends that those who are late for either prayers or meals be required to amend for their fault before being allowed to be part of the general group again. Benedict does not seem overly anxious to exclude others randomly or at will. He makes a provision for the beginning verses of the common prayer to be very slow and deliberate giving everyone ample opportunity to be on time.

It seems as though Benedict is not so much addressing the lateness as the attitude in the person that would allow them to take lightly causing distraction or inconvenience to the whole. It is more about the internal motivations than the actual actions.

How do my motivations and attitudes affect the structure of our community life (whether it be in an office, a classroom, a team or a family)?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Providing Choices

It is often easier to get folks to agree to things if they are given some choice and voice in the matter. Today, Benedict talks to us about the food to be provided at meals. He recommends that two cooked options be available at meals so that those who may not choose one entree would still have another option available. Once again St. Benedict's wisdom and familiarity with human nature is shown since he realized that not everything in a person's life needs to be legislated and that in some cases some choice even a small one might be beneficial.

I can really appreciate this thinking in a very practical way in my life. Growing up I was an extremely picky eater. The list of non-edible foods was much longer than the list of acceptable ones. I never went hungry for long so I must have found some things that I liked. As I grew and began having more of a social life, my parents helped me to realize that while pickiness might be mildly accepted at home it was totally unacceptable in other's homes and in public. I could choose to widen my eating experience and have plenty of opportunities to grow or I could remain how I was and have many less options. It did not take me long to acquire a taste so some things that I would never have thought I could stomach.

The same applies for me in many other instances. How can I offer others choices so that they may grow to their potential?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The More Vulnerable

Since their lack of strength must always be taken into account, they should certainly not be required to follow the strictness of the rule with regard to food, but should be treated with kindly consideration and allowed to eat before the regular hours. RB80.37.2-3

Chapters 36 and 37 of the Rule of Benedict deal with the sick (chapter 36) and the elderly and the young (chapter 37). These two chapters deal with those who are especially vulnerable and defenceless and can easily be forgotten. Benedict requires that special care be given to those who have special needs but might not be able to advocate for themselves. He relates our treatment of those with special concerns with the Gospel scene from Matthew 25.34-40.

What are some practical ways through which I can be compassionate and aware of the needs of all in the group--whether family, team, office or community?

1. Remembering to treat all as individuals. Taking the time to be aware of the special issues which might be troublesome and relevant for each person. What are the stumbling blocks to avoid?
2. Use the same compassion towards others that I would like to receive myself. Taking the Golden Rule a step further.
3. Not set my expectations or standards unreasonably high. I usually have more issues when I set my personal expectations at a level higher than humanly possible (either for myself or others).
4. Take time to slow down before reacting. Problems arise when I expect everyone to have the some values or beliefs that I have.

God calls me daily to be open and compassionate towards those I encounter daily because it is through relationships that I grow in holiness and self-awareness.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Visiting Monastics

A visiting monk from far away will perhaps present himself and wish to stay as a guest in the monastery. Provided that he is content with the life as he finds it, and does not make excessive demands that upset the monastery, but is simply content with what he finds, he should be received for as long as he wishes.

Visitors should not make themselves a burden.

When I was young, I learned that if I wanted to be socially accepted or even just invited places, I needed to make sure that I was a pleasant guest. If I was too demanding or bothersome, I might find myself never invited anywhere. I learned this lesson fairly rapidly and learned it well.

My parents were always amazed that I seemed to be a much different person at friend's homes as opposed to my "at home" behavior. I was polite and courteous. I was not picky or as obnoxious. I even offered to do some tasks that I would never have done willingly at home. My friends were that way at my home also. Just being a guest in someone else's home seemed to make the difference.

Benedict addresses the issue of guests today. He supports his disciples visiting other groups as long as they are not overly-burdensome.

I need to develope some of those "away from home skills" more fully so that they become a part of my daily life. How can I make life at home more pleasant for myself and others?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Receiving What Is Needed

The abbot, however, must always bear in mind what is said in the Acts of the Apostles: 'Distribution was made to each one as he had need' (Acts 4:35). In this way the abbot will take into account the weaknesses of the needy, not the evil will of the envious; yet in all his judgments he must bear in mind God's retribution. RB 55.20-22

All of my needs are taken care of--that is a comforting thought. I do not have to worry about my own clothing, my supplies, my tools for ministry, the equipment I need to fulfill my daily tasks. What I do need is to practice trust--trust in the leadership of the group and trust the group to get me what is necessary.

• There is no need for me to devise my own private stash of food, supplies, tools, necessities for a day that might not be as plentiful. Although it is comforting to know that I have enough for myself and everyone else.
• There is no need to look over what others have and long for their possessions. Unless, of course, I am also willing to take on the responsibilities that often come with new gadgets. The iPhone does not look as appealing when I realize that having it will require that I also take on two new responsibilities within our group.
• I do not need to compare what I have with what others seem to get because I know that everyone has exactly what is needed at that time.

May I always remember to keep my focus on my own piece of creation.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Stability in the Community

The workshop where we are to toil faithfully at all these tasks is the enclosure of the monastery and stability in the community. RB80.4.78

Chapter 4 of the Rule of Benedict speaks of the Tools of Good Works or as some translators refer to it, The Tools of the Spiritual Craft. We have just finished listing the various tools or skills which are necessary in order to live Christian/monastic life well. It is a list which includes the 10 Commandments, the Golden Rule, the 2 Great Commandments as well as bits of common folk wisdom.

Living a life according to the Tools of Good Works sounds a bit like an ideal at times. After all, there are 78 verses of wisdom contained in this chapter. Who but the most diligent among us can live up to these precepts if not all the time, at least half the time??? I know I can't.

My natural tendency would be to run in the face of such a daunting task. I do not like to fail...so if failure is a possibility (or a sure certainty) I think I will just opt out. But this is about living life fully, I have to at least make the attempt.

Today's passage gives me a glimmer of hope to persevere. It invites me to remain at the task I committed to at the start. It reminds me that although I may not get it perfectly all the time, or even any of the time, all I am asked to do is to remain faithful to the life I chose when I said yes to the monastic life. I don't have to get it right, I just have to keep trying with everyone else.

How am I using the tools of good works in my life today?

Sr. Catherine

Protecting Your Soul

The monastery should, if possible, be so constructed that within it all necessities, such as water, mill and garden are contained, and the various crafts are practiced. Then there will be no need for the monks to roam outside, because this is not at all good for their souls. RB80.66.7-8

Benedict envisioned a monastic complex which would be self-sufficient. There would be little need, if any, to leave the property to take care of the needs of the members. That probably was reasonable in the 6th century but is highly improbable in the 21st.

So...how does a person maintain the focus of monastic values even as they navigate the daily challenges of life in our world. Part of the answer, I think, is in remembering that we are meant to be in the world but not necessarily of the world. We are to function within the parameters of society but also show a different response to the events around us. We are called to be radically counter-cultural.

• Where society might encourage us to value a person for their productivity, I am to take time to listen to the old and the young, the sick, the weak, the poor....and value their insights.
• When my natural tendency is to rush from one thing to the next, I am to be mindful of the world around me and God's love in each moment. I need to take time to listen and be present to life.
• When I am encouraged to think only of #1 and to be competitive in all aspects of life, Benedict encourages me to be #1 only in showing respect and love to others.

How am I called to be present to the world but not of the world today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

God's Bells

At the time for the Divine Office, as soon as he hears the signal the monk should drop whatever is in hand and rush there with the greatest haste. But he should do so with dignity so as not to provide an occasion for silliness. Therefore nothing should be put ahead of the Work of God. (Benedict's Rule: A Translation, Terrance Kardong, 43.1-3)

Bells, bells, bells...just when it seems that I am finally being productive the bell always rings to interupt me. Benedict invites me to perceive these signals as the voice of God calling me to prayer--not just as one more interuption.

Bells come in all different forms and sizes. Sometimes the bell could be the sick child that needs extra attention today. It could be the stranger that sits next to me in the pew at church. It could be the lonely elderly neighbor that stops by to chat. These are all ways in which God calls to us in life.

Who is God's bell for me today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Obeying Life

Just when life seems to be planned cozily (just the way I wanted it), there always seems to be something that gets in the way. I prefer life on my terms because then I know what is coming next. Unfortunately, that rarely seems to give God the space needed to interrupt my seemingly perfect life with a bit of grace.

Today I am reminded that part of living life fully calls for an openness to God's intervention daily. It could come in the form of the hurting co-worker, the grieving family member or the ill teammate that needs an extra few minutes in my already crowded life. I have found that it is these encounters that present God to me in various forms.

May I always be alert for God's face in my daily life.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Getting the Right Blend

Benedict asks the leader of the community to have a multitude of people skills. It would almost be easier for all leaders to be extroverts but then we would lose much wisdom from the more reserved leaders among us.

In reading the list of qualities and attributes that the superior needs to lead a group well, I am reminded of an artist mixing paints. My parents and younger sister are all artists of sorts and I remember watching them spend hours mixing and blending paints to get various nuances of colors. Where I (a definite, non-artist) would be tempted to just slosh some colors together and call it good enough, my sister would patiently add a dab of two or three colors, stir and evaluate before finishing. That is the type of care that is required of the Prioress.

Every person and every situation must be considered individually--what is good in one situation is totally inappropriate in another. Care must be taken to ponder every option and do what seems best. This process is usually not a rush job. The leader holds the burden of everyone's failure as well as the glory of all successes. Benedict encourages those in authority to pray well and to adjust all responses to the particular circumstance.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The Golden Rule

Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you.

The Golden Rule as we know it comes into effect daily in community life, work, family, teams...it is played out anytime two or more persons interact.

• It is seen when I remember to pass the salt to the Sister at my table who always salts her food--rather than wait to be asked.
  

• The Golden Rule is displayed when I remember to hold the door open for those entering the house with me and when I tell my co-worker that I am back from lunch so he can go.

• The Rule is used when I remember that others might be sleeping, resting, or praying by not running the vacuum cleaner or calling down the hall to a friend at 5 am on a Saturday.

There are many ways in which we can practice the Golden Rule everyday.

How are you practicing the Golden Rule today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

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Ora et Labora

One of the better known Benedictine mottos is "Ora et Labora" (pray and work). There is much teasing in communities that the day is filled with prayer and work except for the times of eating and sleeping. Many of our older Sisters still remember their times of "recreation" that were filled with needle work, mending, or peeling vegetables--hardly leisure to our 21st century minds.

There is a wholesomeness to working together and praying together. On those occasions when we all do projects together things seem to get done much faster and we get to know one another in a much different way. There are many lessons about community life that can be learned by doing things together--some learn the value of patience, others the trait of compromise, we learn to slow down from the more methodical and to work quickly from the young. We all learn something.

As we approach Spring and Easter, may there be an openness in me to learn something new from every encounter.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Moderation Is the Key

Benedict always advocated the middle road in all things. Where teachers before him had proposed severe fasts and abstinance, Benedict chose to travel the way of moderation. Not too much food...not too little. Food to sustain the body for the work to be performed...not as an end in itself.

In our world that is very image and body conscious, Benedicts insight is like a breath of fresh air. We do not need to obsess over every ounce, drop, calorie or gram but we do need to be aware of ourselves and our needs. Benedict reminds us that while on the road of moderation to remember that over indulgence is also to be avoided.

Sr. Catherine

The Old and The Young

One of the things that appealed to me about Monastic Communities when I was first considering religious life was the multigenerational aspect of our life. The young and the old interact freely together and amazingly the young and the older learn from each other. This appealed to me because I grew up in a multi-generational family.

Growing up we were fortunate to always have at least one grandparent living with us and coming from a family with lots of aunts and uncles there was always someone young around. Those of us that were young learned to respect the wisdom of the elders. We learned traditions and culture from them and we loved to hear stories of how life used to be. The older folks made life interesting for us.

The older folks, on the other hand, were always interested in what the young had to say and in what our ideas were. They wanted to know what made life work for our generation and they always had time to play games with us.

In this interaction between the young and the old, we learned naturally to be flexible, to have a sense of humor and to honor differences. I think that St. Benedict knew about this dynamic and was striving to instill it into his communties. I value this aspect of my life.

May God continue to make me sensitive to the needs of the older and to the insights of the young.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

She May Bear Fruit

As any gardener will tell you, good soil is essential to a good garden. And the common garden tool every gardener needs is the common garden hoe. Hoeing the garden allows the nutrients of the fertilizer to be absorbed into the soil. Hoeing keeps the weeds under control and keeps the soil moist. Hoeing breaks up the hard crusts and allows the soil to breathe life-giving oxygen. The gardener knows that hoeing keeps the soil in good condition so that whatever is planted there will bear fruit.

Benedict recommends that we need to create this same kind of good soil in forming minds and hearts of the persons of every age and level of understanding in the community. It will take a lot of hoeing and using every tool we have. Loving and listening with the heart are tools that may work with some, while counseling and confrontation may be necessary with others. But the common tool in formation is always prayer. God’s life-giving grace can do what our tools cannot do.

These Lenten days are hoe days for turning over the soil of our soul garden, for reworking the soil of our vocation, for weeding out selfishness and greed so that generosity may bloom.

Carrying the Stray Back to the Flock

Jesus sends us two invitations: an invitation to union and to service. He invites us to dwell in his presence and then go forth to share the gifts we have received. We really have only one call--to receive and share God’s love. Sometimes this call involves taking a serious risk to pursue and share God’s love. We may have to climb a sycamore tree like Zacchaeus did, just to see and meet the Lord, or we may have to be hanging on a cross like the good thief Dismas was, just to see and meet the Lord. And sometimes we may have to leave our comfortable niches and go out and find a lost pilgrim on the road and place her on our shoulders and lead her back to the flock, so that she can see and meet the Lord once again.

These are the serious risks Benedict tells us we must be ready to take to support a wavering member of the community. Are we ready to climb that tree, or hang on that cross, or carry that lost one back to the flock?

Sr. Veronica, OSB

Making Adjustments as Necessary

There is a definite wisdom in setting a structure in place but allowing enough flexibility for adjustments or changes as necessary. This format is what the Rule of Benedict provides. After setting up the preferred order for prayer with painstaking precision, Benedict allows the individual communities to make the adjustments that are necessary for their circumstances. He provides us with an elastic structure.

Over 15 centuries later, I can still go to a Monastery during my travels and find some elements of my community's prayer and structure in the host community. It provides a basic unity and universality to our life.

During this Season of Lent, I need to look at the structures that I place around my life. Are they structures that will allow for growth and flexibility? Or, are they structures that can be used to insulate myself against the possibility of change and maturity? Which kind of structures do I want in my life?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The Wisdom of Benedict

What has allowed the Rule of St. Benedict to last over 1500 years? That is a question that I found myself asking during prayers this morning.



The Rule is one of the longest existing documents that is still in effect today. I was impressed this morning in considering the timelessness of the Rule in that Benedict took into account nature (the length of nights and days), individual personalities, human relations, and moderation. It's like a very basic recipe for community existence.



Benedict was definitely years ahead of his time in knowing how to skillfully sift through the best available at his time and add his own blend to it.



I pray to be as skillful in putting into practice the Rule in my life.



Sr. Catherine, OSB

Teaching Styles & Learning Styles

In the last 30 or 40 years research in education has focused on teaching styles and learning styles. This research indicates that educators might be more effective if they took into account the differences in students’ learning styles. This understanding of learning styles can lead a teacher to think about different ways of teaching, to vary techniques to facilitate maximum learning for as many students as possible. Good teaching involves more than communicating the content of a discipline. Good teaching motivates students to continue learning and to teach them the skills and strategies needed for continual learning.

It is interesting to note that Benedict in his Rule already understood this concept of different learning and teaching styles. He instructs the Abbot to “so accommodate and adapt himself to each [monk’s] character and intelligence that he will not only keep the flock entrusted to his care from dwindling, but will rejoice in the increase of a good flock.”

Sr Veronica, OSB