The Rule of Life
In the sixth century, Benedict of Nursia composed a Rule in which he crystallized the best of Western monastic tradition, prescribing a standard of spiritual wisdom for community living that is still the basic guide for thousands of Christians who are committed to monastic life. Above all else, the love of Christ and the glory of God were to be the daily aspirations of the monk, while the means for achieving these aspirations were grounded in the daily schedule of prayer and work; in the relationships of the monks with one another and with their superior; and in the sacred vows of obedience, conversion of life, and stability. Drawing upon the deep tradition of Christian monasticism, the Rule of St. Benedict, sacred Scripture, and the rich charism of its founders, the Rule of Life of the Community of Jesus describes the spiritual principles that inspire the life of the Community of Jesus and the procedures that guide its governance.