Memorial of St. Benedict, Abbot
Today we celebrate the life and legacy of St. Benedict, the spiritual father of Benedictines, and the patron saint of Europe.
Two documents have come down to us about this holy man from Italy who lived in the late fifth and early sixth century: (1) his Rule for monks and nuns, which lays down the foundation for living a life dedicated to God in a community under the direction of a spiritual father or mother; and (2) hagiographic writing of his life and miracles written by Pope St. Gregory the Great, found in book two of his Dialogues.
The author of the latter wanted to stir up the faith of his people in Italy by telling them of a man from Norcia “who was revered for the holiness of his life.” In the dialogue, Peter the Deacon listens to the Pope tell of all the wonders St. Benedict had done. He comments how St. Benedict must have possessed the spirit of all the just, since the holy man did marvels similar to Old Testament figures, like Moses, Elijah, and David. But St. Gregory corrects him, saying, “Actually, Peter, blessed Benedict possessed the Spirit of only one Person, the Savior who fills the hearts of all the faithful by granting them the fruits of His Redemption.” (ch. 8)
Another passage from Pope St. Gregory is worth quoting: “With all the renown he gained by his numerous miracles, the holy man was no less outstanding for the wisdom of his teaching… Anyone who wishes to know more about his life and character can discover in his Rule exactly what he was like as an abbot, for his life could not have differed from his teaching.” (ch. 36)
For Today: To believe, speak, and act in one accord is to have the virtue of integrity. With St. Benedict’s prayers, may we strive to live with ourselves authentically.
Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections