Benedictines
Publié le 22/02/2012
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One of the earliest and most
infl uential orders of Roman Catholic MONKS AND
NUNS. Benedictines follow the rule of St. Benedict
(c. 480–c. 547). This rule divides the day into
times for worship, work, and study. It is moderate
rather than harsh. For example, it does not greatly
emphasize fasting or lack of sleep. By following
the rule Benedictines cultivate obedience, endurance,
humility, and gentleness.
Benedictines were extremely important to European
civilization in the medieval period. The most
important monastery was at Cluny, France (founded
909/910). Benedictine MISSIONARIES were crucial in
bringing CHRISTIANITY to Europe. The two best examples
are probably Augustine of CANTERBURY (d. 604)
and Boniface (c. 675–754), who brought Christianity
to the Anglo-Saxons and the Germans, respectively.
Benedictines were also intellectual leaders.
They copied manuscripts and, like Rabanus Maurus
(780–856), helped create cultural revivals. The
poetry and music of a medieval Benedictine nun,
Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179), attracted considerable
interest in the late 20th century.
The Benedictines experienced a worldwide
revival from about 1800 to the second VATICAN
COUNCIL (1962–65). As part of the revival, Benedictine
houses were founded in North America. At the
end of the 20th century North American Benedictines
were active in promoting Christianity, teaching,
and providing health care.