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The Rule of Saint Benedict

The Rule: A Guide for Members

Oblates and Associates promise to lead an enriched Christian life according to the gospel as reflected in the Rule of St. Benedict. In this way we share in the spiritual benefits of the Fathers, Brothers, and Sisters who are dedicated to the monastic life by vow and are part of our International Benedictine Community. Oblates and Associates strive after stability and fidelity in their lives by regular worship with other Christians and by the support they give to the social and educational apostolates of our Chapter, as well as that of their own church and faith tradition.

For our Oblates and Associate members, the Gospel and the Rule of St Benedict are the dual tracks that guide our lives. Daily reading of the Rule is expected of all members, whatever their status, as is daily time for prayer and the reading of Scripture. How that is done is up to each member but is crucial in learning to live a life of Benedictine spirituality.

You can read the entire Rule here:
https://www.solesmes.com/sites/default/files/upload/pdf/rule_of_st_benedict.pdf

For daily reading and contemplation, we highly recommend “St. Benedict's Rule for Monasteries.” It is broken up into bite-size pieces for each day of the year and with it you can read the entire Rule three times a year.

In our daily life, disciplined use of our gifts and resources is important. By putting money in the bank, we care for ourselves and our families, meet our financial obligations and save for the future. When we have a need, the money is there for us to draw on. Likewise with reading Scripture and Rule: the daily deposit into the bank of our hearts is essential for those who wish to live in the spirit of St Benedict. When life intrudes with troubles and sorrows, we can go to that spiritual bank and withdraw from our hearts the strength we need to hang on and move forward.

Recommended reading
St. Benedict's Rule for Monasteries:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/081460644X?ref_=ppx_hzod_image_dt_b_fed_asin_title_0_0=ppx_hzod_image_dt_b_fed_asin_title_0_0

RB 1980: The Rule of St. Benedict
https://www.christianbook.com/1980-the-rule-of-st-benedict/timothy-fry/9780814612729/pd/12725?event=CFCB

If you would like to learn more about Benedictine spirituality – even if you don’t think you want to join our Chapter – we have regular informational classes to introduce you to a way of life that can make the hard days easier and strengthen your joy. Go to our Membership page to learn more or to register for our next session.
 
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