Lenten Reflections

Readings from the Benedictine Ordo: Pv 2:1-9; Ps 16: 1-2, 5, 7-8; Eph. 6:10-13, 18; Mt. 19:19:27-29

By Fr. Anthony Andreassi

Unlike most other Catholics who today observe Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent, Benedictine monks, their colleagues, students, and friends celebrate the “transitus” of St. Benedict since tradition holds that it was on this day in 547AD that he died. However, notice the word that has long used to describe this event. In Latin, it is “transitus” which English translates as “passing” or moving from one state or place to another. For St. Benedict—and really for all Christians—death was and is not a simply an end. Rather, because of our faith in Christ and his resurrection, death is understood as moving from something old to something new, which, of course, is a theme at the very heart of the Triduum which we will celebrate in not too long.

Because of our baptism, we were made a new creation and were rooted in Christ. This radical new identity and relationship can and should affect the totality of our existence, including but limited to our death. Because Christ has saved us and will never abandon us, as with St Benedict, our death will not bring an end to us and our relationship with Christ but rather a new way of experiencing ourselves, one another, and our connectedness to him. The Preface often used at Masses of Christian Burial gives voice to this Christian truth so beautifully: Indeed, for your faithful, Lord, life is changed not ended, and, when this earthly dwelling turns to dust, an eternal dwelling is made ready for them in heaven.

Just as the death of St. Benedict did not bring him to a final end but to a new way of living, it is our hope that this will be true for us when our days are done. This most profound Christian hope can also serve as a reminder now that when we experience small deaths in our lives due to sin, rejection, or disappointment, these do not have to be the last word, for Christ has come to save us both at the end of our lives as well as to give us his help and grace all along the way.