The Holy Rule of St. Benedict: A Spiritual Path for Today’s World with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., PhD. Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior of our monastery in Schuyler. Series hosted by Kris McGregor
Fr. Mauritius Wilde and Kris McGregor continue their discussion of the life of St. Benedict. In this episode, they highlight his journey of detachment from cultural norms and societal expectations to deepen his relationship with God.
They explore how Benedict’s appearance in the wilderness led shepherds to mistake him for a wild animal initially, symbolizing his detachment from cultural conventions. Despite his unconventional appearance, Benedict’s holiness was recognized by the shepherds, highlighting the idea that true holiness transcends outward appearances.
Fr. Mauritius extends to the broader theme of detachment from cultural biases in spiritual growth, drawing parallels with missionaries and the need to embrace others. He notes the importance of being vulnerable before God, shedding societal masks to reveal our true selves. Fr. Mauritius encourages listeners to examine their cultural biases, appreciate different perspectives, and embrace vulnerability in their spiritual journeys.
CHAPTER I.
“About the same time certain shepherds found him hid in a cave; who, at the first, spying him among the bushes, clothed in the skins of beasts, took him for some wild beast, but afterwards knowing him to be a servant of God, many of them were converted from their savage life to virtue. By this means his name began to be famous in the country, and many did resort unto him, bringing with them necessaries for his body, while they received from his lips the food of life.”
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, NE
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Fr. Mauritius Wilde and Kris McGregor continue their discussion about the life of St. Benedict. They delve into his journey of detachment from earthly ties, including his parents and his immersion into solitude.
Fr. Mauritius also highlights a significant encounter where Benedict forgets the date of Easter, suggesting a detachment even from the Church’s calendar, leading to a deeper understanding of the Easter mystery. This experience is likened to an analog versus original experience, where Benedict transitions from outward knowing to inward experiencing.
The discussion expands to the broader significance of Easter and the importance of active participation and interior understanding within the Church. It concludes with reflections on gratitude towards the Church, personal contribution to its vitality, addressing problems respectfully, and continuing prayer.
CHAPTER I.
“Now when it pleased Almighty God that Romanus should rest from his labours, and that the life of Benedict should be manifest to the world for an example to all men, that the candle set upon a candlestick might shine and give light to the whole Church of God, our Lord vouchsafed to appear to a certain Priest living far off, who had make ready his dinner for Easter Day, saying to him: “Thou hast prepared good cheer for thyself, and My servant in such a place is famished for hunger.” Who presently rose up, and on the solemn day of Easter went towards the place with such meat as he had provided for himself, where seeking the man of God, amongst craggy rocks, winding valleys and hollow pits he found him hid in a cave. Then after prayers, and blessing the Almighty Lord, they sat down, and after some spiritual discourse the Priest said: “Rise, and let us take our refection, for this is Easter Day.” To whom the man of God answered: “I know it is Easter, because I have found so much favour as to see thee.” (For not having a long time conversed with men, he did not know it was Easter Day.) The good Priest did therefore again affirm it, saying: “Truly this is the day of our Lord’s Resurrection, and therefore it is not fit that you should keep abstinence, and for this cause I am sent that we may eat together that which Almighty God hath bestowed on us.” Whereupon blessing God, they fell to their meat. Their discourse and dinner ended, the Priest returned to his Church.”
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, NE
The post LSB4 – Call From Seclusion – The Life of St. Benedict – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In this episode of “The Holy Rule of St. Benedict: A Spiritual Path for Today’s World,” hosted by Kris McGregor and featuring Father Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., listeners are invited to explore the life and spiritual journey of St. Benedict.
The podcast highlights a pivotal moment in St. Benedict’s life when disgusted by his surroundings in Rome, he chooses to follow God’s call over his father’s wishes. This journey leads him to live in a cave for three years, where he is sustained by the monk Romanus, who discreetly delivers food to him. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when St. Benedict, in his quest for total solitude and detachment from worldly needs, mistakenly believes he no longer needs Romanus’s help. This leads to a deeper exploration of the themes of solitude, the dangers of spiritual extremism, and the necessity of community and moderation in spiritual life.
Father Mauritius skillfully connects St. Benedict’s experiences to broader spiritual lessons, emphasizing the importance of humility, community, and the balance between spiritual devotion and practical needs. The episode concludes with a reflection on St. Benedict’s realization that he had gone too far in his detachment, leading to an understanding of the need for balance between solitude and community.
Listeners are encouraged to learn from St. Benedict’s journey, understanding that while solitude and detachment are valuable, they must be balanced with community and humility. The podcast serves as a reminder that in the spiritual journey, extremism can be as dangerous as apathy, and that true holiness lies in recognizing our human limits and the grace of God in all aspects of life.
CHAPTER I.
As he was travelling to this place, a certain monk called Romanus met him and asked whither he was going. Having understood his intention, he both kept it secret and afforded him help, moreover he gave him a religious habit and assisted him in all things. The man of God being come to this place lived for the space of three years in an obscure cave, unknown to any man except Romanus the Monk, who lived not far off in a Monastery governed by Father Deodatus. But he would piously steal forth, and on certain days bring to Benedict a loaf of bread which he had spared from his own allowance. But there being no way to the cave from Romanus his cell by reason of a steep and high rock which hung over it, Romanus used to let down the loaf by a long cord to which also he fastened a little bell, that by the sound of it, the man of God might know when Romanus brought him the bread, and going out may receive it. But the old enemy, envying the charity of the one and the refection of the other, when on a certain day he beheld the bread let down in this manner, threw a stone and brake the bell. Notwithstanding, Romanus afterwards failed not to assist him in the best manner he was able.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, Nebraska
The post LSB3 – Who Broke The Bell? – The Life of St. Benedict – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B. – Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In this podcast episode, Father Mauritius and the host, Kris McGregor, explore the life of St. Benedict and specifically delve into the role of his mother in his spiritual journey. St. Benedict’s decision to abandon his studies in Rome and pursue a life of solitude is discussed, along with the symbolic incident of a broken tray miraculously restored. The broken tray represents the detachment from his motherly figure, and the podcast delves into the psychological aspects of this detachment.
Father Mauritius emphasizes that while Benedict’s departure from his father was relatively easier, separating from the motherly influence was more challenging. The discussion touches on the archetypal roles of fathers and mothers, highlighting the natural difficulty mothers face in letting their children go.
The concept of detachment is explored in the context of societal expectations and familial bonds. Father Mauritius emphasizes the importance of inner maturity and responding to a deeper call rather than adhering to external age-based expectations. The podcast draws parallels with other saints, such as St. Monica and Edith Stein, who faced challenges in detachment from their mothers.
The conversation also touches on the need for mothers to trust their children’s spiritual journey and the significance of finding a balance between detachment and attachment. Father Mauritius suggests a test for determining the level of detachment by assessing one’s feelings when returning home or interacting with parents.
The podcast concludes with reflections on the enduring influence of parents, even after their passing, and the necessity of finding peace in relationships with parents through prayer and understanding.
INTRODUCTION.
THERE was a man of venerable life, Benedict by name and grace, who from the time of his very childhood carried the heart of an old man. His demeanour indeed surpassing his age, he gave himself no disport or pleasure, but living here upon earth he despised the world with all the glory thereof, at such time as he might have most freely enjoyed it. He was born in the province of Nursia of honourable parentage and sent to Rome to study the liberal sciences. But when he saw there many through the uneven paths of vice run headlong to their own ruin, he drew back his foot, but new-set in the world, lest, in the search of human knowledge, he might also fall into the same dangerous precipice. Contemning therefore learning and studies and abandoning his father’s house and goods, he desired only to please God in a virtuous life. Therefore he departed skilfully ignorant and wisely unlearned.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, Ne
The post LSB2 – The Grace of Detachment – The Life of St. Benedict – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
The podcast takes a closer look at St. Benedict, a fascinating historical figure, through the lens of his Rule. Father Mauritius emphasizes St. Benedict’s timeless wisdom, exploring how the Rule serves as a spiritual guide even in today’s world. The discussion touches upon St. Benedict’s biography, written by Pope Gregory, offering unique insights into the saint’s life and miracles.
The conversation unfolds with an exploration of St. Benedict’s early life, born to distinguished parents in Nor, Italy. The narrative highlights his journey to Rome for education, where he experienced a profound shift in perspective, leading him to turn away from worldly pleasures and embrace religious life. Father Mauritius underscores the courage and wisdom displayed by St. Benedict in defying his father’s expectations and choosing a different path, guided by a higher calling.
Much of the conversation reflects on the grace of detachment in St. Benedict’s life. The narrative unfolds how St. Benedict’s detachment from his father was not a rejection but a freeing process, aligning with the broader spiritual principles discussed in the Rule. Father Mauritius draws parallels between St. Benedict’s journey and the challenges individuals face in detaching from earthly expectations, fostering a deeper connection with God.
The podcast also addresses the role of prayer and experience in St. Benedict’s discernment process. Father Mauritius emphasizes the importance of integrating personal experiences with a prayerful perspective, mirroring St. Benedict’s own journey of discovery and transformation.
Overall, the episode provides a rich exploration of St. Benedict’s life and teachings, offering valuable insights into applying his spiritual principles in contemporary contexts. The engaging dialogue between Kris McGregor and Father Mauritius Wilde OSB makes for a thought-provoking and enlightening listening experience for anyone interested in spiritual growth and the enduring relevance of St. Benedict’s Rule.
INTRODUCTION.
THERE was a man of venerable life, Benedict by name and grace, who from the time of his very childhood carried the heart of an old man. His demeanour indeed surpassing his age, he gave himself no disport or pleasure, but living here upon earth he despised the world with all the glory thereof, at such time as he might have most freely enjoyed it. He was born in the province of Nursia of honourable parentage and sent to Rome to study the liberal sciences. But when he saw there many through the uneven paths of vice run headlong
to their own ruin, he drew back his foot, but new-set in the world, lest, in the search of human knowledge, he might also fall into the same dangerous precipice. Contemning therefore learning and studies and abandoning his father’s house and goods, he desired only to please God in a virtuous life. Therefore he departed skilfully ignorant and wisely unlearned.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, NE
The post LSB1 – The Reception of the First Grace – The Life of St. Benedict – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
AR-SP2- THE GIFT OF HOLINESS AT CHRISTMAS w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., Ph.D.
This reflection was given during a special advent evening of prayer and meditation service at St. Margaret Mary’s Church, in Omaha, NE.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
The post AR-SP2- THE GIFT OF HOLINESS AT CHRISTMAS w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., PhD. appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
From the Holy Rule of St. Benedict:
CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be
“…..Let him make no distinction of persons in the monastery. Let him not love one more than another, unless it be one whom he findeth more exemplary in good works and obedience. Let not a free-born be preferred to a freedman, unless there be some other reasonable cause. But if from a just reason the Abbot deemeth it proper to make such a distinction, he may do so in regard to the rank of anyone whomsoever; otherwise let everyone keep his own place; for whether bond or free, we are all one in Christ (cf Gal 3:28; Eph 6:8), and we all bear an equal burden of servitude under one Lord, “for there is no respect of persons with God” (Rom 2:11). We are distinguished with Him in this respect alone, if we are found to excel others in good works and in humility. Therefore, let him have equal charity for all, and impose a uniform discipline for all according to merit.”
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
The post HR6 In place of provincialism, respect and tolerance – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde OSB appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
From the Holy Rule of St. Benedict:
From holy Easter till Pentecost let the brethren dine at the sixth hour and take supper in the evening. From Pentecost on, however, during the whole summer, if the monks have no work in the fields and the excess of the heat doth not interfere, let them fast on Wednesday and Friday until the ninth hour; but on the other days let them dine at the sixth hour. This sixth hour for dinner is to be continued, if they have work in the fields or the heat of the summer is great. Let the Abbot provide for this; and so let him manage and adapt everything that souls may be saved, and that what the brethren do, they may do without having a reasonable cause to murmur. From the ides of September until the beginning of Lent let them always dine at the ninth hour. During Lent, however, until Easter, let them dine in the evening. But let this evening hour be so arranged that they will not need lamp-light during their meal; but let everything be finished whilst it is still day. But at all times let the hour of meals, whether for dinner or for supper, be so arranged that everything is done by daylight.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
The post HR4- In place of confusing life patterns, the security of a healthy balance – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde OSB podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In place of the disability to express ourselves, to sing From the Holy Rule of St. Benedict:
We believe that God is present everywhere and that the eyes of the Lord behold the good and the bad in every place (cf Prov 15:3). Let us firmly believe this, especially when we take part in the Work of God. Let us, therefore, always be mindful of what the Prophet saith, “Serve ye the Lord with fear” (Ps 2:11). And again, “Sing ye wisely” (Ps 46[47]:8). And, “I will sing praise to Thee in the sight of the angels” (Ps 137[138]:1). Therefore, let us consider how it becometh us to behave in the sight of God and His angels, and let us so stand to sing, that our mind may be in harmony with our voice.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
The post HR3 – In place of the disability to express ourselves, to sing – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict w/ Fr. Mauritius Wilde OSB podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Episode 27- The Holy Rule of St. Benedict: A Spiritual Path for Today’s World with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.,
Ph.D.
Listen, O my son, to the precepts of thy master, and incline the ear of thy heart, and cheerfully receive and faithfully execute the admonitions of thy loving Father, that by the toil of obedience thou mayest return to Him from whom by the sloth of disobedience thou hast gone away.
To thee, therefore, my speech is now directed, who, giving up thine own will, takest up the strong and most excellent arms of obedience, to do battle for Christ the Lord, the true King.
In the first place, beg of Him by most earnest prayer, that He perfect whatever good thou dost begin, in order that He who hath been pleased to count us in the number of His children, need never be grieved at our evil deeds. For we ought at all times so to serve Him with the good things which He hath given us, that He may not, like an angry father, disinherit his children, nor, like a dread lord, enraged at our evil deeds, hand us over to everlasting punishment as most wicked servants, who would not follow Him to glory.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological, and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
For more, be sure to visit The Holy Rule of St. Benedict Rule with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B. Podcast Discerning Hearts page
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“In place of serving self…the community meal” – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict: A Spiritual Path for Today’s World with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., Ph.D.
The degree of excommunication or punishment ought to be meted out according to the gravity of the offense, and to determine that is left to the judgment of the Abbot. If, however, anyone of the brethren is detected in smaller faults, let him be debarred from eating at the common table. The following shall be the practice respecting one who is excluded from the common table: that he does not intone a psalm or an antiphon nor read a lesson in the oratory until he hath made satisfaction; let him take his meal alone, after the refection of the brethren; thus: if, for instance, the brethren take their meal at the sixth hour that brother will take his at the ninth, and if the brethren take theirs at the ninth, he will take his in the evening, until by due satisfaction he obtaineth pardon.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological, and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
For more, be sure to visit The Holy Rule of St. Benedict Rule with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B. PodcastDiscerning Hearts page
The post HR#26 “In place of serving self…the community meal ” – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
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