“If we could genuinely practice Benedict’s brand of hospitality, welcome each guest to our churches as the visitation of Christ, it might transform our guests as well as us. Instead of making th other into our image, I am invited to see the other as one who is make in God’s image and for whom Jesus Christ died.” (Dennis Okholm, Monk Habits for Everyday People)
Rule of St. Benedict 53:1 –
“All guests who present themselves are to be welcome as Christ, for he himself will say: ‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me.'” (Matthew 25:35)
“Awareness of mortality exerts a unique power to focus the mind and heart on essentials.” (Columba Stewart, Prayer and Community: The Benedictine Tradition)
Rule of St. Benedict 49:7 –
“Day by day remind yourself that you are going to die.”