St. Benedict has a distinct mission for the sanctification of monks [and Oblates]. He intervenes personally and directly in the lives of all his sons [and daughters]. He teaches them not only through the written word of the Rule, but also through a charismatic intervention in the lives of his monks, which continues and will continue as long as Benedictine monasticism lasts. This is St. Benedict’s great work as the Father of Western Monasticism.
But if we do not love St. Benedict, this supernatural action of his prayers and love cannot function in our lives. It is by this love and filial trust and respect for him that we open our hearts to the graces that God has willed to bestow on us through his mediation.
Thomas Merton
Notes on the Rule, p. 9.
