HR 9 – Instead of leaning on others, standing on one’s own feet – The Holy Rule of St. Benedict with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B – Discerning Hearts Podcasts
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In this episode of Discerning Hearts, host Chris McGregor interviews Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B. about Chapter 69 of The Holy Rule of St. Benedict, which emphasizes standing on one’s own feet rather than relying on others for defense. Fr. Mauritius explains that St. Benedict forbids monks from defending one another—even family members—to prevent cliques, preserve community unity, and foster individual maturity. He highlights that true spiritual growth comes from trusting the Holy Spirit to guide each person in speaking for themselves, especially in moments of difficulty. This principle extends beyond the individual to the monastery as a whole, which is meant to be self-reliant—economically, spiritually, and canonically—avoiding dependence on benefactors or external authority. The episode also explores how the novitiate process exemplifies this theme through rigorous discernment and personal responsibility. Fr. Mauritius concludes by reflecting on modern society’s over-reliance on technology and interconnectedness, urging listeners to reclaim personal strength, self-awareness, and trust in God and community.
True spiritual maturity means learning to speak for yourself, not relying on others to defend you.
Monastic communities are designed to be self-reliant—economically, spiritually, and structurally—to preserve freedom and independence.
The novitiate period is a time of rigorous discernment to ensure that vows are freely and thoughtfully made.
Community trust grows not from blood ties but from shared commitment to the Rule and mutual accountability.
Over-dependence on technology and social networks can erode personal grounding and self-awareness.
Introduction to The Holy Rule of St. Benedict
Introduction to the podcast series and guest, Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B., with a focus on the theme of personal responsibility and self-reliance in the monastic life.
The Rule Against Defending Others
“St. Benedict wants us monks to be mature, to learn to stand on our own feet. That we don't need to have somebody who is like a mother to us or a father or brother who speaks on our behalf.”
The Novitiate and the Path to Responsibility
“If he promises perseverance in his stability, then after two months have elapsed, let this rule be read straight through to him and let him be told, This is the law under which you are choosing to serve. If you can keep it, come in. If not, feel free to leave.”
Monastic Self-Reliance: Spiritual and Economic Freedom
“We don't want to accept that to stand on our own feet, even financially. The background is, again, to be independent. So if you have a benefactor from whom you are dependent, he kind of dictates you what you have to do, even spiritually.”
Modern Relevance: Technology, Trust, and Personal Grounding
Fr. Mauritius reflects on contemporary society’s over-dependence on technology and social networks, urging a return to personal strength, self-awareness, and trust in God and community.
“If he promises perseverance in his stability, then after two months have elapsed, let this rule be read straight through to him and let him be told, This is the law under which you are choosing to serve. If you can keep it, come in. If not, feel free to leave.”
“We don't want to accept that to stand on our own feet, even financially. The background is, again, to be independent. So if you have a benefactor from whom you are dependent, he kind of dictates you what you have to do, even spiritually.”
“St. Benedict wants us monks to be mature, to learn to stand on our own feet. That we don't need to have somebody who is like a mother to us or a father or brother who speaks on our behalf.”
Host
Guest
Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.
person
St. Benedict
person
The Rule of St. Benedict
book
Chris McGregor
person
Discerning Hearts
organization
Chapter 69
other
Chapter 58
other
Chapter 68
other
Rome
place
Ephesians 5
other
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