May 11

Chapter 2 pt. 2

The Rule of Benedict May 11

"The purpose of Benedictine spirituality is to gather equally committed adults for a journey through earthen darkness to the dazzling light that already flames in each of us, but in a hidden place left to each of us to find."  -Joan Chittister OSB from The Rule of Benedict: Insight for the Ages


This paragraph from Sr. Joan's commentary on today's reading from Chapter 2 in the Rule has shaped my approach to the role of Prior in our order.  The Prior is responsible before God to join each member on the journey to their hidden flame and, once found, to help protect and fan the flame.


I believe that this hidden flame is realized in our daily practice, which is the journey on which the Prior is to join each member.