Monasticism & its role in the development of our liturgy

Monasticism & its Role in the Development of our Liturgy

The distinctive patterns of Benedictine monastic worship have a long history in English Christianity. In the middle ages, many English cathedrals were run by Benedictine monks. When Archbishop Thomas Cranmer began preparing a Prayer Book in English, he turned to this source for one of his most significant innovations: the Daily Office. He condensed the monastery’s eight distinct daily prayer-times into two: Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer. The goal was to create an Office that could be used, not just by those in monastic vows, but by ordinary clergy and laity, and not just in the cloister, but in every parish church and family home. This Benedictine influence also helped shape the threefold pattern of Anglican spirituality: regular Eucharist, Daily Office, and personal devotion (see Rule of Life).

Resources

English Spirituality, Martin Thornton

Ascetical Theology

a. Prayer life and spirituality of minister b. Understanding of Spiritual Disciplines c. Spiritual Direction d. Rule of Life e. Daily Office f. Monasticism & its role in the development of our liturgy g. Missional applications of ascetical theology h. Monasticism and mission i. Mystical & Contemplative Spirituality j. Tools for Prayer and Scripture Reading k. Vocation l. Discernment m. Gifts & Fruit of the Spirit n. Stewardship