July 11
Saints of the Day
 

Saint Benedict, 480-547
One of the greatest,  founder of Western Monasticism, over 40,000 monasteries guided by the Benedictine Rule

    St. Benedict is one of the greatest saints, it is unfortunate that no contemporary biography was written of a man who has exercised measureless influence on monasticism in the West. Benedict is well recognized in the later Dialogues of St. Gregory, but these are sketches to illustrate miraculous elements of his career.

    Roman nobility. Twin brother of Saint Scholastica.

    He fled to the mountains near Subiaco, living as a hermit in a cave for three years; reported to have been fed by a raven.

    He was the first to joint the hermits in a monastery, the monastery at Monte Cassino, one of the most famous, where he wrote the Rule of his order. His discipline was such that an attempt was made on his life; some monks tried by poison him, but he blessed the cup and rendered it harmless.

    He returned to his cave, but continued to attract followers, and eventually established twelve monasteries.

    Had the ability to read consciences, prophesy, and forestall attacks of the devil. Destroyed pagan statues and altars, drove demons from groves sacred to pagans.

    At one point there were over 40,000 monasteries guided by the Benedictine Rule. A summation of the Rule: "Pray and work."

      A Monastery is Fixed abode of a community of monks, canons regular or nuns. The name is extended to included houses of and of certain more recent congregations like Passionists or Redemptorists, but never Jesuits.
    Normally it consists of a church, chapter-house, cloisters, refectory, cells or common dormitory, the superior's apartments, library and work-rooms, guest quarters, and parlor for visitors.
    For the canonical erection of a monastery with enclosure the permission of the bishop is required, and in certain countries of the Holy See as well.
    Normally, at least twelve religious must live in it. A monastery is generally an abbey or a priory.