Engaging Benedict: What The Rule Can Teach Us Today

by Laura Swan

Nearly fifteen centuries ago, Benedict of Nursia wrote a rule for Christians who wanted to live, work and pray together in community. With its core values of contemplation, hospitality, and simplicity, the rule remains as useful and fresh today as it was when Benedict created it in Italy those many centuries ago. But the Rule is not without its difficulties in contemporary practice. Author Laura Swan, a Benedictine Sister, looks at the Rule with a critical eye, seeking to unpack those parts that are problematic and to uncover gems that support the yearnings of today's seekers. She takes the obstacles that women and young people find in the Rule, and offers them insights that resonate with their experience and are still faithful to the challenge of the Rule. Readers will discover that Benedict's wisdom can shed much light on their own lives. By wrestling with the Rule, and hence taking it seriously, Laura Swan offers readers guidance on many difficult and painful questions.

188 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2005

About the author

I am passionate around restoring the voices and contributions of women to the Christian movement. They made major contributions to Christian theology, composed music, translated Scripture into their local vernacular, preached, taught, and were leaders. Thus, two of my nonfiction books seek to correct this. I've also written/published on aspects of Spirituality. Visit my YouTube station (@BenedictineSister Laura). I just released my first completed novel, The Hannah Document.

Follow me on Bookbub at https://www.bookbub.com/profile/laura...

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely book about the rule of Benedict served me well both as an introduction to the Rule and as ecellent material for reflection.

[Susy Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a read for my Benedictine Oblate group. Done slowly and over a year’s time.

[Patricia R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A refresher course for being a Benedictine Oblate.


Ann recommended the author.

[Bonnie Westmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sister Laura brings the teachings of the Rule to our lives today. Truth-telling, compassion, an intimate relationship with God, listening, a commitment to justice, love, joy, hope- If this is what you seek, read this book. These things are still possible in the world we live in today. She will show you how the Rule can guide you to peace despite your circumstances.

[Marcia Claesson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for our Benedictine Oblate discussion group. I really like the insights into Benedictine Spirituality.

[Saima Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sr. Laura is the real thing! If you want to get some guidance on navigating these times this is a book place to visit I'm so happy it is on kindle now.