The Solemnity of Our Holy Father Saint Benedict

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 33 Monks and Private Ownership
Mass: Prov 2:1-9; Resp Ps 34; Eph 4:1-6; Mt 19:1-6

Glorify the Lord with me. Together let us praise His name.

LET US OPEN OUR EYES TO THE LIGHT THAT COMES FROM GOD, AND OUR EARS TO THE VOICE FROM HEAVEN THAT EVERY DAY CALLS OUT THIS CHARGE: IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE TODAY, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS (Ps 94[95]:8).

(RB Prologue 9-10)

Welcome to the Solemnity of Our Holy Father Saint Benedict. It was in the 1964 apostolic letter Pacis Nuntius that Pope Paul VI proclaimed Saint Benedict as the principal patron saint of Europe (the other patron saints of Europe are Saints Cyril and Methodius, Saint Brigid of Sweden, Saint Catherine of Siena, and Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross). The pontiff gave Saint Benedict the illustrious titles of messenger of peace, creator of unity, teacher of civility, and above all the herald of the religion of Christ and the founder of western monasticism! Our world continues to need Saint Benedict's guidance and intercession.

For those who may think the 6th century Rule of Saint Benedict is no longer relevant (hopefully there aren't too many people, especially the readers of this blog 😊), one can look anywhere in the Holy Rule and apply Saint Benedict's wisdom to the contemporary home, work, or community environment. For example, chapter 34 on the distribution of goods according to need begins in this way: "It is written: Distribution was made to each one as he had need (Acts 4:35). By this we do not imply that there should be favoritism-God forbid-but rather consideration for weaknesses. Whoever needs less should thank God and not be distressed, but whoever needs more should feel humble because of his weakness, not self-important because of the kindness shown to him. In this way all the members will be at peace" (RB 34:1-5). Such a way of living and working seems most reasonable and accommodating in any environment. That passage takes one to perhaps the most beautiful chapter in the Holy Rule, Ch 72 on good zeal. Saint Benedict has this to say about good zeal which monks must foster with fervent love: "They should each try to be the first to show respect to the other (Rom 12:10), supporting with the greatest patience one another's weaknesses of body or behavior, and earnestly competing in obedience to one another. No one is to pursue what he judges better for himself, but instead, what he judges better for someone else (RB 72:3-7). So, "let us get us get up then, at long last, for the Scriptures rouse us when they say: It is high time for us to arise from sleep (Rom 13:11) ... as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love" (RB Prologue 8, 49).

In conclusion I offer something I made up yesterday, something Saint Benedict may like: "Live well. Die well. Keep going until further notice."

SAINT BENEDICT,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Thankfully we have a computer expert in res. Please enjoy a bit of color and beauty in our midst on this most glorious of days.

 © Gertrude Feick 2020