How to Live in Community following the Rule of St. Benedict

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." (Matthew 18:20)

The Rule of St. Benedict was written by St. Benedict of Nursia in 516. This document is a set of guidelines written initially for monastic communities that promoted a life of simplicity, humility, and communal living. Although it was written for monastic communities, many of the principles can be applied to our daily lives and help us live in community with others.

Here are some ways we can live in community:

Embrace simplicity: Learn to be content with what we have, avoid excess, and focus on the essentials of life. This can also mean sharing resources and helping those in need.

Practice hospitality: Practice hospitality as a way of welcoming others and creating a sense of community. Invite others into our homes, share meals, and be generous with our time and resources.

Build relationships: Build relationships with others in the community by getting to know one another, listening to each other's stories, and supporting one another through difficult times.

Work together: Emphasize the importance of work as a way of contributing to the community. Find ways to work together towards common goals, share tasks, and support one another in our work.

Seek wisdom: Seek wisdom and grow in our understanding of the world and our place in it. Study with others, engage in spiritual practices, and seek guidance from those with more experience.

By practicing these suggestions in our daily life, we can live in community inspired by the Rule of St. Benedict, creating a sense of belonging within ourselves and those around us.