Cornerstone Community
Community Life, Daily Prayer, Study, and Holy Work
Following The Rule of St Benedict
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Members of the Cornerstone Community strive to follow the path of Jesus Christ through the practice of prayer, study, community, and action.
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For Cornerstone, the world is our cloister. We find that applying the Benedictine vows and practices to contemporary life helps us live in the world with purpose and joy. Members of our lay order commit to a balanced practice of regular prayer, study and work. We meet in small groups, none larger than ten participants, who meet weekly to support each other in our Benedictine life.
Benedictine monastics make three vows:
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CONVERSION OF LIFE — an openness to the sanctity of everyday life and a commitment to practice the ideals of Scripture and The Rule.
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STABILITY — the promise to remain in community, even though close
relationships can create interpersonal tensions.
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OBEDIENCE — accepting the example of Jesus to seek what is best for others.
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Practice includes:
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WORSHIP — Each small group shares some form of regular worship:
Compline, chant, intercessions, comtemplation or lectio divina.
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STUDY — Each small group studies The Rule, discerning how to apply its wisdom to their lives. Each group also chooses another book, reading or issuefor weekly reflection and discussion.
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PRAYER — Members are disciplined to participate in church worship,
practice daily prayer, pray for community members, and contemplate
God throughout the day.
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COMMUNITY — The whole community gathers for meetings throughout
the year. These meetings include Eucharist, a common meal, study, fellowship, and chanted Compline. Additionally, we gather for St. Benedict’s birthday potluck and an Epiphany celebration.
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Those interested in membership begin the process by attending a series of classes on Benedictine practice, including The Rule of St Benedict, Community Life, Prayer, Study and Work.
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The classes, taught by the abbot and members of the community, are held each October as part of Wednesday at the Commons and include: A liturgy for admission of new members and the community’s reaffirmation of vows takes place each December in the Trinity Chapel.
Questions? Email Elaine Stewart, Abbot