The Rule of Saint Benedict ~ Pocket Size Edition

No book apart from the Bible was more copied in the Middle Ages than the venerable Rule of Saint Benedict, which has guided uncounted monks, nuns, oblates, and laymen to salvation for well over a millennium since it was written in the sixth century. Originating in rural Italy, its evident wisdom and simple style recommended it to Pope Saint Gregory the Great, and honoured by his approval it soon spread throughout Latin Christendom, becoming the monastic rule par excellence. 

Dom Justin McCann's translation of the Rule was first published in 1937, and has long been admired for its happy combination of elegance of style and accuracy. Having fallen out of print for decades, it is here finally republished in a newly typeset edition with historically correct monastic typeface. The dates on the margins mark the passages traditionally read at the Chapter Office after Prime that ensure the Rule is read in full three times a year, while the edition's pocket size (4 × 6 in.) makes it convenient for personal study and reflection as well. English-speaking readers here have an enduring companion as they 'gird their loins with faith and the performance of good works, and following the guidance of the Gospels walk in the Lord's paths, that they might merit to see him who has called us unto his kingdom'.

Foreword by the Abbot of Ampleforth Abbey:

‘It is a privilege to be asked to write a foreword for this new edition of the Rule of St Benedict translated by Abbot Justin McCann O.S.B. It was, at the time of publication in 1952, a significant contribution to the English-speaking world and the very fact that there is still interest is a testimony to its value. Abbot Justin was a noted classicist and took great pains to render an accurate translation of the Rule which he loved and lived for over 58 years.

His desire to pursue a monastic vocation was not welcomed by his father but eventually the young Philip McCann’s wish prevailed and he was clothed at Belmont, which was the common noviciate at that time for the E.B.C. in 1900. During his early formation the teaching of Fr Augustine Baker and Sancta Sophia had already made a deep impression and so the notion of mortification, prayer and custodia cordis had found a lasting place in his life.

He is remembered by his monastic brethren as a great scholar, as an affectionate and generous friend; he was a very good monk and diligent priest. What better proof that the translation of the Rule of St Benedict was not merely a scholarly endeavour but a guide to his personal journey in holiness. I am more than happy to commend this edition which has deep gravitas and to thank those who have conceived this worthy project so that a new generation may appreciate a more classical rendering of the Rule.’

☩ Abbot Robert Igo, O.S.B.

Endorsement by the Abbot of Saint Louis Abbey:

‘I first encountered Justin McCann’s translation of the Rule of Saint Benedict when I entered the novitiate at our monastery (Saint Louis Abbey) in the late summer of 1979. It was the translation used by my formators, and while they supplemented it with much of the (then) latest scholarship on the historical sources of The Rule, it remained the core text that helped form me as a monk.

For generations, English-speaking monks were formed by McCann’s version of The Rule, and it served them all very well. My copy was filled with annotations and cross-references, and while it was later supplanted by RB 1980, it remains on my bookshelf as a loving reminder of the days of the first flower of my monastic vocation.

This new edition promises to be a welcome representation of McCann’s beautiful rendering of Benedict’s Rule, as well as McCann’s own insights into the Rule’s teaching on monastic life. I pray that it will be for you a source of joy and inspiration.’

☩ Abbot Gregory Mohrman, O.S.B.