Today, we celebrate the incredible life of St Benedict, a man whose faith, wisdom, and vision have inspired countless generations. Through his deep love of God, commitment to prayer, work, and community, St Benedict established a way of life that continues to guide people around the world today. His Rule, founded on humility, hospitality, stability, and service, has shaped monastic communities and influenced education, leadership, and spiritual life for more than 1,500 years. As we honour St Benedict, we give thanks for his enduring legacy and the example he provides of living a life centred on faith, compassion, and the pursuit of peace.
To read about the incredible life of St Benedict – Click here
The below hymn celebrates the life, spirituality, and enduring influence of Saint Benedict. It reflects on his deep love for Christ and his commitment to a life of prayer, work, and community, which became the foundation of the Benedictine tradition. The first verse honours Benedict’s decision to place God above all things and to build communities dedicated to serving others and spreading God’s kingdom. The second verse invites believers to join in Benedict’s spirit of prayer and compassion, praying for those who suffer, those in need, and for the whole of creation. The final verse gives thanks for Saint Benedict’s Rule, which continues to guide people in living lives of balance, hospitality, humility, and love. Overall, the hymn calls people to follow Benedict’s example by walking a Gospel path of faith and service with joyful and generous hearts.
Hymn: Of Benedict, Beloved of God
Of Benedict, beloved of God, we sing.
Preferring Christ to all, to ev’rything,
he sought with others, one in work and prayer,
to serve and spread the kingdom ev’rywhere.
With Benedict, beloved of God, we pray
For those called forth to follow in his way,
for those who suffer, those who are in need;
for all creation, now we intercede.
For Benedict, beloved of God, give praise,
whose holy Rule still guides and shapes our days.
May we, rejoicing, run the path he chose,
hearts filled with love’s delight that overflows.
Click here to listen to a student of St Scholastica College’s live performance of this hymn of celebration.