Recommended Readings

Wisdom Distilled From The Daily – Living the Rule of Benedict Today 
by Joan Chittister, OSB

Wisdom Distilled From The Daily is a wonderful and uncomplicated presentation of how to apply Benedictine spirituality to daily life. It provides an introduction to those unfamiliar with Benedictine spirituality, as well as serving as continued guidance to those already seeking to live Benedict’s “little rule” in their daily lives.

A Spirituality For The 21st Centry – The Rule of Benedict 
by Joan Chittister, OSB  (originally published in 1992 in slightly different form and without art and music)

Sr. Joan has written a commentary on The Rule of Benedict (RB) that opens this over  1500-year old document to those of our day whose lives seemed to be filled to the brim by segmenting it into a small portion for each day. The daily commentary gives an example of how RB might be applied to the daily lives of both new and old seekers of Benedictine Spirituality.

Preferring Christ – A Devotional Commentary on the Rule of St. Benedict 
By Norvene Vest

Norvene Vest takes a slightly different approach in this commentary in that she provides a brief explanation (“Comment”) of each section of the Rule Benedict (RB) followed by a “Reflection” and finally invites us to pray or respond. This commentary seems more fitting for those already somewhat familiar with RB.

The Benedictine Handbook 

Authors from various denominations have written sections in the four parts of this book, some religious or pastors and others, who speak from their experience of attempting to life according to the Rule of Benedict (RB) in the ordinary world. The six parts are:  Saint Benedict’s Rule, Tools of Benedictine Spirituality, The Benedictine Experience of God, Living The Rule, The Benedictine Family, and A Glossary of Benedictine Terms. It is suited more for those with a knowledge of or experience living Benedictine spirituality.

The Oblate Life
Edited by Gervase Holdaway, OSB

Written for the women and men who have affiliated themselves with a specific monastic community while remaining at home in the world and living a life differentiated from the norm. Insights into how the Rule of Benedict (RB) applies to and gives direction in our everchanging world are presented in three sections: The Benedictine World, Living the Oblate Life, and Resources for Oblates.