Fr. Placid, OSB, Dom Alphonsus, OSB, Dom Angelico, OSB with Fr. Mauritius, OSB.
Simple professed monks Dom Alphonsus Ma. Bahia, OSB, and Dom Angelico Ma. Salenga, OSB, along with their Prefect, Fr. Placido Ma. Acta, OSB, took part in the 2nd Monastic Course organized by the OSB Tutzing community from August 1-16, 2024. The event, held at St. Scholastica’s Center of Spirituality, brought together religious men and women from various Benedictine and Cistercian Orders for an enriching exploration of monastic life.
The course was facilitated by Fr. Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Prior of San’t Anselmo, who focused on the theme, “The Life of St. Benedict, A Model for Contemporary Spiritual Life.” Fr. Wilde delved into the spiritual path of detachment, emphasizing how monastic detachment from parents, church, culture, sexuality, and power is not merely an ascetic discipline but a profound call to liberation, allowing monks and nuns the freedom to fully follow the Lord.
Drawing from the original text of The Dialogues by Gregory the Great, Fr. Wilde provided a historical examination of St. Benedict’s life, tracing his journey from the cave at Subiaco to the founding of the monastery at Montecassino. The participants were invited to reflect deeply on St. Benedict’s example as they considered their own spiritual paths.
Daily sessions began at 9:00 A.M. and concluded at 11:30 A.M., followed by afternoons dedicated to personal study, group sharing, and lectio divina. In the evening after supper, attendees engaged in discussions about their monastic ministries and shared the histories of their respective congregations.
The course attracted a diverse group of 64 participants, including Sisters, Nuns, Trappistines, Fathers, Trappists, and Brothers, all united by their shared commitment to the monastic way of life and the spiritual legacy of St. Benedict.
This gathering not only provided a rich educational experience but also served as a reminder of the timeless relevance of St. Benedict’s teachings in today’s world. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a strengthened bond among the participants, who returned to their respective communities inspired to continue their monastic journey with greater zeal.
