The Rule

The Holy Rule of St Benedict

We intend to establish a school for the Lord’s service. In drawing up its regulations we hope to set down nothing harsh, nothing burdensome. It is bound to be narrow at the outset. 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.

Born in about 480 in central Italy, Benedict was sent to Rome to study but he became disgusted by the slack morals and withdrew to live as a hermit at Subiaco. His sanctity was soon discovered and many flocked to join him so that he was able to set up twelve small monasteries. In about 530 he left Subiaco for Monte Cassino and built a great abbey there and lived there till his death in 550. There he wrote what is probably the most influential monastic Rule ever written, which is widely held to be one of the most potent factors in buiding up the civilization of Christian Europe. The Rule is characterised by its moderation and balance and is as relevant today, making allowances for cultural differences, as it was when it was written.

Quotations from the Rule of St Benedict.

“We intend to establish a school for the Lord’s service. In drawing up its regulations we hope to set down nothing harsh, nothing burdensome. It is bound to be narrow at the outset. 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)

“Do everything with counsel and you will not be sorry afterward.” (RB 3)

“On arising for the Work of God they will quietly encourage one another, for the sleepy like to make excuses.” (RB 22)

“Necessary proper items are to be requested and given at the proper time, so that no one may be disquieted or distressed in the house of God.” (RB 31)

“They will regard all utensils and goods of the monastery as sacred vessels of the altar.” (RB 31)

“Let everyone receive help as the size of the community or local conditions warrant.” (RB 35)

“Let the abbot strive to be loved rather than feared. He must so arrange things that the strong have something to yearn for and the weak nothing to run from.” (RB 64)

“They should each try to be the first to show respect to the other, supporting with the greatest patience one another’s weaknesses of body or behaviour.” (RB 63)

“Never lose hope in God’s mercy.” (RB 4)

“Let them prefer nothing whatever to Christ and may he bring us altogether to everlasting life.” (RB 72)

The Confraternity of the Holy Cross

The Confraternity of the Holy Cross consists of women and men who wish to have a link with the Community and live their lives according to the spirit of the Rule of St Benedict.

if you want to know more please read the paper written by Reverend Mother by clicking here.