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BENEDICTINISM

Background
Benedictinism arose in 6th Century Italy.  The Benedictines were the first of the great religious orders and their influence spread over the Christian world.  The Rule of Benedict, written by St. Benedict, continues to be the most famous and influential of the monastic rules, and has recently been discovered to be a highly applicable basis for the personal rules of modern laymen. 

Benedictinism and Anglicanism
Benedictine monks were early missionaries to England, and as time passed each of the great cathedrals came to be run by a chapter of Benedictine monks.  Other religious orders arose later in Europe, but they never penetrated much into England.  Even though Henry VIII destroyed the monasteries and drove the monks away, the English clergy was steeped in Benedictinism and this was reflected in the Book of Common Prayer of 1662, which is the basis for Book of Common Prayer of 1979, and indeed of all Anglicanism.

Modern Anglicans sometimes feel that Benedictinism is a new movement being layered onto their church, but Anglicans have always Benedictines and still are.  There is absolutely nothing in Benedictinism that is at odds with Anglicanism.  Indeed, the Rule of Benedict as lived in monasteries then and now has been called simply "Anglicanism with a structure."

Anglican traits such such as balance, the "middle road" (via media), thorough scholarship, hospitality, and an emphasis on practice rather than abstract theory, are all Benedictine in origin. 

The study of Benedictinism is a return to roots for Anglicans.  It can be a congenial pathway to an expansion and growth of one's personal faith.  One has only to surf the internet or browse through a religious bookstore to see the revival of interest that Christians of all denominations have in St. Benedict and his teachings.  As Anglicans, we are fortunate to be among Benedict's direct spiritual descendants.

Anglicans are living proof that you don't have to be a monk to be Benedictine.

Benedictinism at St. Paul's
While St. Paul's embraces its Benedictine heritage somewhat more than many Episcopal/Anglican parishes, it is in no way a requirement for membership or attendance.  It is simply an opportunity that is open.  The last thing St. Benedict thought he was doing was making a Rule for everyone.  The starting point is Benedict's famous statement that one should, "Prefer nothing to the love of Christ."   It is this emphasis on worship that allows followers of St. Benedict to set aside political differences and emphasize our common belief in the Risen Lord.  The Benedictines to this day -- Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Lutheran -- are the most ecumenical of orders.

St. Benedict for Today is an informal group at St. Paul's that meets monthly to discuss  how to apply the Rule of Benedict to modern lay life.  All are welcome, speak to Mary Mouw for further information.

Benedictine Ethos

The Benedictine Ethos Today God exists and is present to every aspect of human existence.  Therefore, one must bring a reverent and mindful attitude to life.  Prayer is not the only thing worth doing in this world, but without prayer, nothing else is done as well nor are things kept in proper perspective. Every person is of equal worth in the eyes of God.  Therefore, no one can be considered a mere object but must be given voice in his or her own destiny. Authority is necessary in every human society and it must be obeyed insofar as it serves the common good. It is possible for human beings of various backgrounds and cultures to live in a harmonious community.  People are meant to live in mutuality and not alienation. Personal fulfillment is just as important as the profit of the community, but mature happiness can only be found in serving others. Truth is never served by force or violence.  We prove that we do not really believe in the truth when we impose it on others by violent force.  Competition is an artificial means of stimulating human striving; in the long run it cannot produce the same fruits of peace and joy that can be achieved by cooperation. Lawrence Kardong, OSB The Benedictines