May 17

Chapter 3 pt. 1

The Rule of Benedict May 17

Directly on the heels of a chapter in which his monastic superior is entrusted with the sacred responsibility of spiritual formation for the entire community, our father Benedict instructs that no important matter is to be resolved without summoning the community to counsel "because it often happens that the Lord makes the best course clear to one of the youngest" (tr. Patrick Barry OSB).  It seems to me that we have here an instance of Benedict's profound wisdom as a master of the Way.  Yes, some are called to assume responsibility for the spiritual well-being of others, but God is no respecter of persons and will not be confined to the minds and lips of the powerful.  The culture of the monastery has built into it the capacity to listen to the Lord through every last member.  In our association, we see this culture embodied in the children who encircle the Table and by whose hands we are fed the living Bread each week.