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Seminar 8:
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Given the widespread influence of Benedictine monasticism in the church and the world through the centuries, an influence to be found in scholasticism, liturgical life and agrarianism, it is an interesting prospect to look at the way in which monasticism may have some bearing on Christian life in the 21st century. The many Benedictine communities around the world have lay people gathered around them, who are committed to fulfilling their Christian vocation in a life that mirrors the teaching of St. Benedict as found in his Rule. Such things as balance, regular prayer involving lectio divina (the prayerful reading of scripture), praying the divine office, meditation and recognizing Christ in all whom one encounters. Hospitality is a key concept of the Rule, as is the widely misunderstood teaching on humility, silence and obedience found in Benedict's Rule. It is interesting to note that, while the Rule was written for a group of men living celibate lives in the sixth century, the people who put the teachings of the Rule into practice are married and single, women and men of the 21st century. The Rule is not just for monks and nuns but for all who 'have ears to hear'. This seminar will focus on the possible impact of a gospel-based life, following the Rule of St. Benedict, and 'preferring nothing to Christ', for the Church as a whole — both clergy and laity.
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