Benedictines

Benedictines, officially the Order of Saint Benedict (OSB), are a monastic religious order of the Catholic Church. They trace their origin to Saint Benedict of Nursia, who, in the 6th century, established a rule that became the foundation for Western monasticism. Benedict's Rule, formulated at Monte Cassino, emphasizes ora et labora—prayer and work—and a balanced life in common.

Benedictine communities are typically organized as autonomous houses, governed by an abbot or abbess. Members take vows of stability, conversion of life, and obedience, and live a life of prayer, work, and study within a contemplative-communal framework. They keep the Divine Office, a cycle of daily canonical hours, and undertake various forms of labor, from agriculture and crafts to education and scholarship. The order is renowned for hospitality and for the preservation and copying of texts in the Middle Ages.

The Benedictines spread across Western Europe in the early Middle Ages, contributing to Christian education, literacy, agriculture, and culture. The Benedictine Confederation links the independent monasteries and abbeys that share Benedictine spirituality and discipline.

In the modern era, Benedictines continue to operate monasteries and convents worldwide, maintaining a balance between contemplative prayer and active service in teaching, hospitality, and retreat work.