The Road to Eternal Life: Reflections on the Prologue of Benedict's Rule

by Michael Casey Ocso

In the Prologue of his Rule, St. Benedict maps out the road that leads to heaven; he lays the foundation for life in a community that seeks God. The themes that are present throughout the Rule--obedience, humility, prayer, fear of the Lord, eternal life--are grounded in the Prologue. By reflecting on the Prologue one verse at a time, Michael Casey, OCSO, delves into the richness of meaning that can be found in Benedict's words. These reflections, first given as talks and made available on his community's web site, build a bridge between the sixth-century text and twenty-first-century Christians. In The Road to Eternal Life, Casey invites readers to reflect on the Prologue in light of their own experiences, to seek "the road that leads to salvation."

Genres: Spirituality

201 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Sophie Jessup · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really want to give this book 10 stars because it is that brilliant!

I started this book during a retreat at an abbey and then have gradually finished it off at home, i have really tackled it at a snails pace and I am really glad that I did!

Some quotes towards the end of the book that really resonated with me:

"When we run away from one set of difficulties we may find a little temporary relief, but, mysteriously, the same issues eventually arise again in the new situation."

"Faith grows strong through prayer."

And finally my absolute favourite:

"Patience means that we break the casual chain of evil. It absorbs pain instead of passing it on, instead of striking at someone else, I simply embrace patience with a quiet mind. The pain goes no further. I choose to absorb evil rather then pass it on and so perpetuate it."

[Kathleen Stark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite the clear greatness of this book, it was a difficult book to grasp. But the last chapter pulled it all together in a way I could relate so well. I will read it again and hopefully continue to get more out of it.

[Irene Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful book by Michael Casey that I studied for my Benedictine Study Group.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on St. Benedict's prologue

[Andrew Marr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A verse by verse commentary on the Prologue to the Rule of St. Benedict. This book is filled with the wisdom of a monk who has lived by the Rule for several decades. Best read a chapter or two at a time accompanied by generous reflection time.

[Candace Simar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper spiritual life. I LOVED it.

[Benjamin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled to get into Casey's word flow. A few Benedictine friends have strong appreciation for him, so I'll still lean toward him in reading.