The image below, which is by Fra Angelico and is in the public domain, shows St Benedict’s gentleness, humility and moderation. His ‘Life’, written by Pope Gregory the Great, begins thus: ‘There was a man of venerable life, Benedict by name and grace, who from the time of his very childhood carried the heart of an old man. His demeanour indeed surpassing his age, he gave himself no disport or pleasure, but living here upon earth he despised the world with all the glory thereof, at such time as he might have most freely enjoyed it …’

We who are privileged to follow his holy Rule, pray that we also may attain that humility which he describes so beautifully there.

So, today, may St Benedict pray for us, and may God bless you in your own following of Christ.