Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. Benedict
Podcast Information:
- Title: Catholic Saints
- Host/Author: Augustine Institute
- Episode: St. Benedict
- Release Date: July 11, 2025
Introduction to St. Benedict and Pope Benedict XVI
The episode begins with an introduction by Tim Gray, President of the Augustine Institute, who welcomes listeners to a discussion on St. Benedict alongside Dr. Ben Akers, a professor of theology.
Tim Gray highlights how St. Benedict has significantly influenced contemporary Catholicism, particularly inspiring Pope Benedict XVI. He states:
"Pope Benedict really took that name inspired by and with an aspiration... towards a renewal that Benedict brought about."
(00:14)
Dr. Ben Akers elaborates on Pope Benedict XVI's deep connection to St. Benedict, mentioning the symbolic significance of Subiaco—the sacred cave where St. Benedict prayed for three years.
"Pope Benedict really chose his name thinking of St. Benedict, the founder of Western monasticism."
(01:38)
Pope Benedict XVI’s Inspiration and Vision
Tim Gray discusses the timing of Pope Benedict XVI's name choice, noting that Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI) was preparing to receive an award in Subiaco shortly before the death of Pope John Paul II. This location, closely tied to St. Benedict, underscores the Pope’s intention to emulate Benedict’s role in revitalizing faith amidst societal challenges.
Dr. Ben Akers adds depth by referencing Pope Benedict XVI’s address in Subiaco, emphasizing the need for individuals who "render God credible in the world" through openness to God and others.
"What the world needs now are people that render God credible in the world... ministers and apostles of peace, of mercy, of evangelization and formation of the faith."
(03:20)
St. Benedict’s Life and Spiritual Practices
The conversation shifts to St. Benedict’s formative years. Dr. Ben Akers recounts Benedict’s early life, his abandonment of secular studies in Rome due to spiritual disillusionment, and his three-year retreat in the sacred cave of Subiaco. This period was pivotal for Benedict’s spiritual growth, leading to his role as a leader and mentor in establishing monasteries.
Key points include:
- Benedict’s Transformation: From leaving secular pursuits to embracing a life of prayer and asceticism.
- Gregory the Great’s Account: Highlighting Benedict’s wisdom and his ability to inspire others through a life aligned with Gospel teachings.
"A perfect conformity of words to deeds, all based on the Gospel."
(09:28)
The Rule of St. Benedict and Its Practical Application
Tim Gray introduces the Benedictine style of prayer, Lectio Divina, emphasizing its importance in Benedictine spirituality and its influence on Pope Benedict XVI’s papacy.
Dr. Ben Akers connects this practice to the Second Vatican Council's Dei Verbum, underscoring the Pope’s commitment to deepening the Church’s engagement with Scripture.
The discussion delves into the Rule of St. Benedict, praised for its pragmatism and flexibility, which facilitated the rapid growth of Benedictine monasteries across Europe.
"The secret sauce to sanctity, is a perfect conformity of words to deeds, all based on the Gospel."
(09:28)
Implementing a Rule of Life: Practical Spiritual Guidance
Dr. Ben Akers introduces the concept of a "rule of life" inspired by St. Benedict’s rule, advocating for structured spiritual practices to foster personal holiness. He suggests starting with manageable steps, such as:
- Morning Offerings: Opening the day by dedicating it to the Lord.
- Evening Reflections: Conducting an examination of conscience to evaluate daily spiritual progress.
- Regular Prayer Practices: Incorporating mental prayer, Scripture reading, and participation in the sacraments.
"Start with small baby steps... this is what you need to do to start to be a good monk."
(12:36)
Tim Gray reinforces this by likening the formation of a rule of life to training for a marathon, emphasizing consistency and gradual growth.
"Start slow, start close to home."
(15:54)
Benedictine Virtues: Obedience, Stability, and Conversion of Life
The podcast explores the three Benedictine vows and their application in modern life:
-
Obedience:
- Definition: Rooted in the Latin "ab audire" (to listen), obedience begins with attentive listening to God’s word.
- Application: Embracing Church teachings, practicing Lectio Divina, and being open to guidance.
"You can't be obedient unless you first listen."
(21:15) -
Stability:
- Definition: Commitment to enduring relationships and environments.
- Application: In lay life, this translates to fostering lasting relationships, such as stable marriages and enduring friendships.
"Commit to the relationships that you're in and to ask forgiveness and to give forgiveness."
(25:20) -
Conversion of Life:
- Definition: Continuous transformation and renunciation of worldly distractions.
- Application: Aligning one’s values with God’s, rejecting materialism, and seeking spiritual growth.
"Do I see the world as God sees the world?"
(28:06)
Tim Gray underscores the importance of these virtues in cultivating a stable and holy life, drawing parallels between monastic commitments and everyday Christian practices.
Living Benedictine Spirituality Today
Concluding the discussion, Tim Gray and Dr. Ben Akers inspire listeners to adopt Benedictine principles in their personal lives. They encourage:
- Active Listening to God: Through regular prayer and Scripture reflection.
- Commitment to Relationships: Building and maintaining strong, forgiving relationships.
- Ongoing Conversion: Continuously striving for personal holiness and rejecting worldly temptations.
Tim Gray invites listeners to seek St. Benedict’s intercession in developing their own rules of life, aiming for deeper stability and continuous spiritual growth.
"May Benedict inspire you to have deeper stability, deeper conversion of life, and to listen more deeply to God."
(30:10)
Conclusion
The episode effectively bridges the historical impact of St. Benedict with contemporary applications of his spirituality, offering listeners practical guidance on emulating Benedictine virtues. Through insightful dialogue, Tim Gray and Dr. Ben Akers provide a comprehensive understanding of how St. Benedict's legacy continues to shape and inspire modern Catholic faith and practice.