Friday, July 11, 2014

July 11: St. Benedict

St. Benedict

History

St. Benedict is called the "Father of Western Monosticism" because he wrote down a way of life for monks involving prayer, work, and charity that is still used to this day. He was born in Italy and studied in Rome, but he was disgusted by the way people sinned so carelessly, and he decided to move away from everybody and live in a cave. People all around the area knew how holy he was, so he was asked to lead a community of monks. This was not what Benedict wanted to do, but he knew the monks were not behaving very well, so he agreed. The monks didn't like Benedict's rules for living, so they put poison in his drink! But when Benedict prayed a blessing over the cup, it shattered. Then the other monks tried to give him poisoned bread, but when Benedict prayed a blessing over the bread, a raven came and snatched the loaf away. Benedict left the monks and went back to living in a cave. 

Activity

While we don't have to worry about our food and drink being poisoned, it's really important to pray for God's blessing over the food we eat. Before every meal (and snack!) make sure you pray "Bless us, O Lord, and these, Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen." 

St. Benedict, pray for us!

More reading for parents:



Last year, we had a "backwards day" in remembrance of St. Olga, who did a complete turnaround in her life, changing from a wicked, murderous queen to a loving Christian. 

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