Faithful

The novice to be received comes before all in the oratory and promises stability, fidelity to the monastic way of life, and obedience. This is done in the presence of God and the saints. — Rule of St. Benedict, Chapter 58:17-18

Life is chaotic. Inevitably, challenges arise and we hit rough spots. St. Benedict experienced this reality 1500 years ago as we do today. The wisdom of “fidelity to monastic life” applies to any relationship or community. Marriages and families. Schools. Churches. Teams. Neighborhoods. Workplaces.

We must remain faithful to a goal. To THE goal. In this retreat, we will explore why fidelity is important and what fidelity means when circumstances change. We will explore how we have experienced difficulties and where we might find blessings in those difficulties. We will notice when we have been faithful and when we have not. We will listen for where we are called to be faithful now and in the future. We will learn what it means to be an adult Christian.

Using our own experience, Scripture stories, books, and family histories we will explore when and how we change and how we hold fast to “follow Christ more nearly” through life’s changes. This retreat is for persons listening to God’s call in their lives and able to reflect/imagine a journey that is uniquely personal yet joined to others.

The Center for Benedictine Life at the Monastery of St. Gertrude and Spirit Center present three retreats based on the vows of Benedictine life: stability, fidelity to the monastic way of life, and obedience. Each retreat explores one vow and its applicability for individuals, families, churches, workplaces, and any other community. The retreats stand alone; participation in one does not require participation in the others.