RSB: Chapter One

The Kinds of Monastics

How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down upon the collar of his robes. (Ps 133:1)

Everyone needs community. It is particularly essential for new monastics, who are entering unknown territory. In St. Benedict’s day, it was the duty of the abbot and the more experienced monastics to guide newer seekers as they trained the heart, mind, and body to heal the soul. In our day, authority is more widely dispersed. A monastery may be made up of five or six seekers, who confer together in order to increase their understanding and improve their practice. The key point here is that in order to foster spiritual growth you need to consult with others.

Another strength of a community is that it helps you sand off your rough edges when you rub against the rough edges of someone else! And of course, loving thy neighbor requires neighbors. Your Benedictine practice group is the shallow end of that pool.