Benedictine Values
Saint Benedict: Wood Carving
by Jim Classe ’84
Benedictine values encompass a broad range of concepts that are central to life within a Christian community. It is quite possible to literally perceive dozens of values that can be deemed as Benedictine in nature. This a testimony to the breadth of “The Rule” and communal life established by Saint Benedict.
Here at Mount Michael Benedictine we have chosen to put special focus on the following Benedictine values.
Service – Community – Hospitality – Moderation – Integrity
“SERVICE: No one is to pursue what is judged best for oneself, but instead, what is better for someone else. (Rule of St. Benedict 72:7)”
“COMMUNITY: Respect the elders and love the young. (Rule of St. Benedict 4:70-71); Proper honor must be shown to all (Rule of St. Benedict 53:2)” “They should each try to be the first to show respect to the other… earnestly competing in obedience to one another.(Rule of St. Benedict 72:4,6)”
“INTEGRITY: Your way of acting should be different from the world’s way; the love of Christ must come before all else.(Rule of St. Benedict 4:20)”
“HOSPITALITY: All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Rule of St. Benedict 53:1)”
“MODERATION: All things are to be done with moderation. (Rule of St. Benedict 48:9)”
At the start of each week the entire community – students, faculty, and monks – gather for a prayer and reflection on these values.