Essays

The angel Gabriel would like a word. . .

Wouldn’t it be nice if the Annunciation was simply an historical event?

Mar 25 • Teresa Jackson

Living into transformation

as part of a complex community

Mar 7 • Jane Somerton

Benedictine wisdom in a time of uncertainty

Is it a curse to live in interesting times?

Feb 7 • Teresa Jackson

The Parable of the Rope

Once there was a Seeker who heard of a Holy Hermit living near the top of a mountain.

Jan 3 • Center for Benedictine Life

Is it really "All about the work?"

I have lived and worked in the Monastery of St.

Dec 6, 2025 • Teresa Jackson

The Parable of the log

Nov 1, 2025 • Center for Benedictine Life

Learning love from stinky feet

What happens at the intersection of dirty towels, stinky feet, knives, forks and service?

Oct 4, 2025 • Teresa Jackson

Chop wood. Carry water. Load the dishwasher.

Credit: Alexander Zvir

Sep 6, 2025 • Center for Benedictine Life

Healing Hospitality

and looking in the mirror

Aug 2, 2025 • Teresa Jackson

Thy will be done

President Clinton used to say something like, “America is the sort of place that if you work hard and play by the rules, you will get ahead.” This may…

Jul 5, 2025 • Center for Benedictine Life

The Bread of Self

Blessed, broken, and given

Jun 1, 2025 • Center for Benedictine Life

The Spirit blows where it will

Bonus for St. Matthias Day!

May 14, 2025 • Center for Benedictine Life

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