Two Paths

There are two ways in which the contemplative life can be looked at.

The first way considers the institution as guardians of a fixed traditional ideal. The role of the its adherents is not to question the tradition. It also promotes that this ideal can be more or less easily discovered by emulating those who have gone before, namely, those who are in charge.

The second way is founded on the Bible, which is itself a lively document reflects God's interaction in the daily lives of people. Also, the flexibility found in the Rule of St. Benedict has made it a life-giving guideline for discipleship throughout the ages. And lastly, the lives of those who formed primitive Christian intentional communities is seminal. These certainly did not draft detailed legislation, observances, or doctrine to open them to the experience of Christ.