Does it seem plausible that Benedictine monasticism, established in the sixth century, is a promising option for a young man of the third millennium searching for a future filled with meaning for himself and others?

It is true that some parts of the Rule are no longer observed. But it is also true that St Benedict wanted his Rule to be adapted to varied cultures and places. It is largely this that has enabled it to be fruitful for numberless men and women throughout the centuries. One cannot easily count the ways that the Benedictine life has fostered sanctity in individuals and the development of persons who have been so needed in cultures and the Church through the ages.

St Benedict addresses men and women who want to put God first in their lives to fulfill their baptismal consecration to the Father through the Son and in the Holy Spirit. He calls men and women who, by God's grace, feel inspired to let secondary objectives go so that they may let themselves be more available to God and God's sons and daughters in need. These are men and women who so want union with God and a ministry to bring others into union with him that they are searching for a structure of life that fosters these goals with a time-tried wisdom.

St Benedict structures his "school of the Lord's service" (Prologue to the Rule) in a way that shows a deep understanding of the human condition. He is aware of the tensions in human life. He implements a holistic vision that can integrate varied human needs over the long haul to build up the human and Christian person and community. He seeks to insure a wise balance among prayer, work and community in daily life. These are reflected on elsewhere in this brochure. One might say that giving priority to this balance is the Benedictine charism.

The vows are not taken on entrance into the Benedictine life but only after some time of trial. By these vows ordinary people, by God's gift, are enabled to live more fully for God and his people. Though these vows are very counter-cultural, by living in accord with them multitudes of men and women through the centuries have taken on Christ's own mind and heart. By the vow of obedience according to the Rule and under an abbot they surrender the control of their lives to God. By the vow of stability they are enabled to sink deep roots and so grow and bear fruit. By the vow of celibacy in imitation of Jesus and Mary and that of poverty they are freed for God and his service.

A number of people who reflect on our individualistic age that is largely stripped of a strong moral tradition say that the Benedictine community is desperately needed as a support for some and a help for many more. In the third millennium the Benedictine life will continue its transforming influence for the Church, society and individuals.