CHAPTER 5 – FORMATION AND STUDY
“Apply thyself to sacred studies, and fix thy thoughts on the blessings that are of God. Leave temporal things behind, and make for the eternal”. -St. Anselm
“Our duty, as men and women, is to proceed as if limits to our ability did not exist. We are collaborators in creation.” -Pierre Teilhard De Chardin
The ongoing development of both the Community and its members is centered on three pillars: a well-rounded understanding of Scripture, a dedicated prayer life, and a deep appreciation for Church teachings and traditions, particularly those rooted in ecumenism, monasticism, and mysticism.
All members are expected to regularly engage in study and prayer, following guidance from their spiritual director or designated mentor. This study encompasses both religious and secular topics. Secular studies can be practical, creative, or intellectual, encompassing artistic pursuits, crafts, technical skills, hobbies, scholarly endeavors, or professional development. The goal is to foster a well-rounded individual who integrates their faith with all aspects of life.
Our studies are a journey of growth, helping us develop both intellect and spirit. Through them, we strive to live more fully in accordance with Christ’s teachings. Even as we push boundaries and seek deeper understanding, we remember God’s constant presence, guiding us towards a richer knowledge of Him and His creation. While human understanding can only reach so far, the infinite grace of faith offers a more profound connection.
Much of our focus is on deepening our understanding and expression of Christian faith, particularly through the lens of Christ and his teachings, which emphasize a personal experience of the incarnational embodiment of faith. As red letter Christians we read all of scripture in light of what Jesus has to say primarily found in the Gospels. Our studies are grounded in a core Christian worldview, built on the pillars of creation, incarnation, and redemption.
Ultimately, the responsibility for learning and personal growth rests with each member. Genuine enthusiasm fuels this journey, alongside trust and collaboration with teachers, spiritual directors, and the entire Community. Together, we support and learn from each other on this lifelong path of transformation.
From the Rule of our Holy Father St. Columbanus: “What is best in the world? To do the will of the maker. What is this will? That we should do what he has ordered, that is, that we should live in righteousness and seek devotedly what is eternal. How do we arrive at this? By study. We must therefore study devotedly and righteously. What is our best help in maintaining this study? The intellect, which probes everything and, finding none of the world’s goods in which it can permanently rest, is converted by reason into the one good which is eternal.”
Scriptural Support
And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, [Jesus] interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself… Then he said to them, “These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:27,44,45 (RSV)
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42 (RSV)
The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Heb. 4:12 (RSV)