I met the Benedictine monk, Br. David Steindl-Rast, around 1976. Ever since that time, he has been a constant spiritual companion through his writings and spoken word. During this pandemic, I have found myself going to my roots for nourishment and strength, and once again, I have found Br. David a good and steady companion. In these weekly Hope for the Journey reflections, I would like for you to come to know Br. David. I cannot describe the impact he has had on my life.
In the late 1970s, while in seminary prior to my ordination to the priesthood, I spent two summers living with the Benedictine monastic community of Mount Saviour Monastery in Elmira, New York, the monastery of Br. David. Those two summers shaped my spirituality, theology and ecclesiology, and years later opened my heart to the Episcopal Church, whose spirituality, theology and ecclesiology are rooted in the Benedictine tradition. I often tell the story that I spent my time at Mount Saviour Monastery thinking I was discerning a vocation to the monastic life. But in reality, God was patiently working in my life and leading me to the Episcopal Church. It just took a few more years to realize that.
I encourage you to visit Br. David’s website (gratefulness.org). There you may come to know about him and resources available to you.
This week, I’d like to share with you a video of Br. David’s that invites us to consider what gratefulness can do in our lives.
— Fr. George
For more parish resources and updates during the global pandemic, visit St. Paul’s Connects.