Chapter Talks

In the Rule of Saint Benedict you find many references to the abbot’s responsibility to teach and guide the brothers individually and as a community. He does this by his example as well as by his words. In a chapter talk the abbot breaks open his heart to the monks and speaks from his own prayer, study, and experience as we continue to progress in our monastic journey together.

In reading the Chapter Talks provided here you will find topics that the abbot (or his designee) considered important for the monks of New Melleray to hear and ponder at a specific point in time. The brothers are the audience and our shared life serves as the context. The underlying truths, however, pertaining to individuals and communities living gospel values as members of the Body of Christ apply to all.