What Did Benedictine Monks Do?

The life of a Benedictine monk today closely mirrors the life described in the Rule of St Benedict, written around the year 538 AD. This document provides a comprehensive framework for the daily routine and spiritual practices of the Order. To truly understand what Benedictine monks do, one must immerse oneself in its teachings.

Prayer: The Heart of Their Life

In the life of a Benedictine monk, prayer holds a central place. The monastic tradition emphasizes a multifaceted approach to prayer, encompassing both personal and liturgical aspects. Divine Offices, also known as the Divine Service, is a key component of their prayer life. These are times when monks gather to recite psalms, hymns, and prayers according to a specific schedule throughout the day and night.

Many monasteries adhere to the traditional schema of praying seven times during the day and once at night, following a set order: Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline. This structured prayer life is not merely a formal obligation but a source of spiritual nourishment and communal bond among the monks.

In addition to structured prayer, the monastic tradition also encourages Lectio Divina, a method of reading Scripture and other sacred texts in a prayerful and meditative manner. This practice helps monks to delve deeply into the theological and spiritual riches of the Christian tradition and to integrate these insights into their daily lives.

Work: The Foundation of Monastic Life

Alongside prayer, work forms a crucial part of the Benedictine monastic life. This work can take many forms, reflecting the diverse skills and resources available within each monastic community. Some monks engage in manual labor, tending to farms or apiaries, or performing other essential agricultural tasks. Others might be involved in maintenance, binding books, or even producing goods to sustain the community or to sell.

Monasteries have traditionally been centers of learning, often running schools or parishes that further their mission of education and spiritual guidance. These educational and pastoral activities stem from the monastic community's own unique history and character, making each community distinct and valuable in its own right.

A Balanced Life

The Benedictine life is intentionally structured to balance the demands of both the mind and the body. The Rule of St Benedict provides guidance on maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in physical exercise, and managing daily routines that ensure both physical and spiritual well-being.

For Benedictine monks, the interconnectedness of prayer and work is evident. Just as prayer refines the soul, so too does work nurture the body. This holistic approach ensures that each aspect of monastic life contributes to a well-rounded and spiritually fulfilling existence.

Conclusion

In summary, Benedictine monks today do the same thing they have been doing for centuries – following the teachings of the Rule of St Benedict and living a life dedicated to prayer and work. This life is centered on structured prayer, personal and communal spiritual growth, and the practical application of skills that support the fabric of their community and contribute to the wider world. For those interested in understanding the life of a Benedictine monk, delving into the Divine Office and Lectio Divina, along with observing their daily activities, can offer profound insights into this ancient and enduring monastic tradition.