HR 16 – The Value of Listening and Silence – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

The Value of Listening and Silence – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B In this episode of The Holy Rule of St. Benedict: A Spiritual Path for Today’s World, Fr. Mauritius Wilde, OSB, and Kris McGregor reflect on fear, love, and the spiritual journey toward trust in God. Drawing from Chapter 6 of the Rule on humility, St. Benedict teaches that the goal of the Christian life is to arrive at that "perfect love of God which casts out fear." Fr. Mauritius explains that fear is a natural part of being human and even plays an important role in our relationship with God. Yet the monastic path seeks to transform fear through love, allowing the soul to move from anxiety, dread, and self-protection toward confidence, reverence, and trust. Throughout the conversation, Fr. Mauritius explores how fear often arises from past wounds, vulnerability, and uncertainty about the future. Rather than denying fear or being ashamed of it, St. Benedict encourages us to acknowledge it honestly and bring it before God. Through prayer, humility, loving relationships, and perseverance, fear gradually loses its power. Sharing personal experiences from his own life, Fr. Mauritius reveals that spiritual maturity is not the absence of fear but the growth of a love so rooted in God that it can face fear with courage, hope, and trust. From the Holy Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 42: From the Holy Rule of St. Benedict: CHAPTER XLII That No One Speak after Complin Monks should always be given to silence, especially, however, during the hours of the night. Therefore, on every day, whether of fast or of a mid-day meal, as soon as they have risen from their evening meal, let all sit together in one place, and let one read the Conferences or the Lives of the Fathers, or something else that will edify the hearers; not, however, the Heptateuch or the Books of the Kings, because it would not be wholesome for weak minds to hear this part of the Scripture at that hour; they should, however, be read at other times. But if it was a fast-day, then, when Vespers have been said, and after a short interval, let them next come together for the reading of the Conferences, as we have said; and when the four or five pages have been read, or as much as the hour will permit, and all have assembled in one place during the time of the reading, let him also come who was perchance engaged in work enjoined on him. All, therefore, having assembled in one place, let them say Complin, and after going out from Complin, let there be no more permission from that time on for anyone to say anything. If, however, anyone is found to break this rule, let him undergo heavy punishment, unless the needs of guests should arise, or the Abbot should perhaps give a command to anyone. But let even this be done with the utmost gravity and moderation. Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. St. Benedict understood that we need nourishment for both body and soul. What sources are feeding my spiritual and intellectual life?
2. How often do I set aside time for thoughtful reading, reflection, and learning?
3. Am I more inclined to collect information or to allow wisdom to shape the way I live?
4. Who have been the teachers, mentors, or spiritual guides that have helped me grow in faith?
5. In an age of constant information, how do I discern what is truly beneficial for my mind and soul?
6. What book, teaching, or spiritual practice has recently challenged me to grow closer to God?
7. How can I become more attentive to the voice of God speaking through Scripture, spiritual reading, and the wisdom of others?

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