WCCM Oblate Blog: Reflections from Daily Reading of the Rule of St. Benedict

WCCM Benedictine Oblates are encouraged to read a designated portion of the Rule daily, and to write a brief, personal response. I hope that this blog will support our Oblate community in this practice. Please, keep blog entries brief and in a first-person ("I") voice. Refrain from discussing, offering an opinion, or commenting on other entries. Simply consider how a particular section of the Rule is speaking to you in your present circumstances.

Tuesday, April 9, 2019

Chapter 55: Clothing and footwear for the community (paragraphs 1-2)

However the superior should see to it that the garments are not short and ill-fitting but appropriate to the size and build of those who wear them. (From para. 1 of Ch. 55 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

With all of Benedict's concern for economy and practicality, I'm touched by his attention to appropriate fit. This speaks to me of the dignity of the body, and offers a gentle challenge to bear with honor the indwelling spirit.

2 comments:

Wally SaundersApril 9, 2019 at 3:29 AM
Hoarding is a growth industry in our acquisitive society. Storage facilities more and more dot the landscape, supporting my consumption addictions. Meditation and lectio and Benedict's Rule all help remind me, Abba, that, simply having you, I have enough, I am enough.
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Wally SaundersApril 11, 2019 at 3:34 AM
My needs are relatively few: basic food, clothing, shelter. My wants are insatiable and stoked by the diabolical consumer culture that envelops me. It’s glittering offerings distract and separate me from you, Abba. Meditation reconnects me to you, the only place I find true rest and peace.
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