Solemnity of the Transitus of St. Benedict
Today at Conception Abbey, we take a break from our regular observance of Lent. Instead, we celebrate a solemnity to honor St. Benedict. Tradition holds that this is the day he died.
St. Benedict is one of my favorite saints. After Jesus and maybe St. Paul, he has been a big influence in my life. His teaching on leadership shaped how I approached being an abbot for 10 years and a bishop for more than 25 years.
I am convinced that his teaching can help anyone who is in a position of leadership – whether that is a parent, a business leader, a government official, a teacher, a parish priest, and so many others.
St. Benedict encourages anyone in leadership to balance kindness and firmness. A leader must be challenging, encouraging people to do things rightly. But a leader must also be compassionate.
A leader must be like the Good Shepherd, searching for the one lost lamb, pouring medications on its wounds, affectionately carrying it back to the flock.
At one point, St. Benedict writes, “The abbot must temper all things in such a way that the strong have something yet to strive for, while the weak are not discouraged and frightened away” (chapter 64 of the Rule).
On this Solemnity of the death of St. Benedict, we give thanks for this great teacher and patron.
Reflection: How do I balance kindness and firmness in my particular vocation?
Reflection by Archbishop Jerome Hanus, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources