Chapter 64: The election of an abbot or abbess (paragraphs 1-2)

The grounds on which a candidate is elected abbot or abbess must be the quality of their monastic life and the wisdom of their teaching, even if they are the last in order in the community. (From para. 1 of Ch. 64 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

St. Benedict demands the effort of discernment in recognizing leaders. This teaching challenges me, personally, to recommit myself to the path of meditation and self-knowledge. Then, whatever leadership positions I many find myself in, in whatever ways I may have an influence other people, I may be more selflessly attentive.