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Benedictine Values
OVERVIEW
What grounds us
The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University are guided by the Benedictine Values distilled from the Rule of St. Benedict, written in the sixth century by St. Benedict, the founder of the Benedictine monastic order. These values give us a set of practices for a life modeled on Jesus. They provide insight and support in building a strong and caring family, civic, and church communities.
Our shared values
Awareness of God
To look for God not in the abstract but in the ordinary events of every day.
“We believe that the divine presence is everywhere.” R. B. 19
Community Living
To become who we are by our relationships with others.
“Let all things be common to all.” R. B. 33
Dignity of Work
To appreciate the dignity of work in God’s creation.
“… they live by the labor of their hands.” R. B. 48
Hospitality
To offer warmth, acceptance, and joy in welcoming others.
“Let all … be received as Christ.” R. B. 53
Justice
To work toward a just order in our immediate environment and in the larger society.
“… that in all things God may be glorified” R. B. 57
Listening
To hear keenly and sensitively the voices of persons and all created beings.
“Listen … with the ear of your heart.” R. B. Prologue
Moderation
To be content with living simply and finding balance in work, prayer, and leisure.
“All things are to be done with moderation.” R. B. 48
Peace
To strive for peace on all levels: with self, others, and God.
“…seek after peace and pursue it.” R. B. Prologue
Respect for Persons
To respect each person regardless of class, background, or professional skill.
“No one is to pursue what is judged best for oneself, but instead, what is better for someone else.” R. B. 72
Stability
To cultivate rootedness and a shared sense of mission.
“To stand firm in one’s promises.” R. B. 58
Stewardship
To appreciate and to care lovingly for all the goods of this place.
“Regard all utensils as if they were the sacred vessels of the altar.” R. B. 31