St. Benedict was a monk who founded a dozen monasteries in the 5th century. He was also the twin brother of St. Scholastica. (See the article on her for a good story about their relationship.)
Benedict is primarily known for writing a set of rules which monks follow. These foster a life of obedience and humility. The "Rule of St. Benedict" also lay out how monasteries should be managed. The rules specify that monks should devote themselves to prayer and work - Ora et Labora. Their days should be evenly divided, with 8 hours for sleeping, 8 hours for labor, and 8 hours for prayer. These rules are widely used in monasteries to this day.
His feast day is July 11.
Patron Saint of ...
St. Benedict is the patron saint of Europe, monks, and people in religious orders.
Daily Mass Readings for the Memorial of Saint Benedict, Abbot
- First Reading - Proverbs 2:1-9: "He has counsel in store for the upright, he is the shield of those who walk honestly, Guarding the paths of justice, protecting the way of his pious ones."
- Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 34: "I will bless the Lord at all times."
- Gospel - Matthew 19:27-29: "And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life."
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