Service and Hospitality: The Rule of Benedict: Welcoming Christ in Guests

The Rule of St. Benedict (c. 530) contains one of the most beautiful statements on hospitality in all Christian literature: "Let all guests who arrive be received as Christ, because He will say: 'I was a stranger and you took Me in.' And let due honor be shown to all, especially to those who share our faith and to pilgrims." Benedict instructs that the abbot and the whole community should wash the hands and feet of guests.

Benedict also specified practical details: guests should be met with prayer, given food even if the community is fasting, and provided with comfortable bedding. A specific brother was appointed as guest master, whose sole responsibility was ensuring that no guest was neglected. "In the reception of the poor and of pilgrims the greatest care and solicitude should be shown, because in them is Christ more truly welcomed."

Practical application: Invite someone for a meal this week -- not a close friend, but someone on the edges of your community: a new neighbor, a colleague who lives alone, a newcomer to church. Prepare the meal with prayer, asking God to help you see Christ in your guest. Benedict teaches that hospitality is not social entertainment but spiritual practice.