Cherish Christ Above All: The Bible in the Rule of Benedict Paperback – March 31, 2002

Father Demetrius Dunn writes a gentle, scholarly understanding of the Rule of St. Benedict through the prism of its Scriptural roots. Is Benedictine spirituality inherently biblical, or is the bible used merely as supporting text? he asks. Not surprisingly, he finds Benedictine spirituality's heart lies in Scripture. Father Dunn spins out his thesis in lovingly crafted discussions of trust, compassion, discipline, community prayer and private prayer--all centered around Christ.When I heard Father Dunn preach a sermon on the gospel story of the feeding of 5,000 (Matt 15:29-37), he stressed that most of us are not called to martyrdom or greatness, but to be a little "better". This message is repeated throughout Cherist Christ, findings its home in the Rule and Scripture. "Embracing one's real life in honesty and humility is a pre-condition for the faith that gives access to the saving events of God in human history", he writes (page 13). And while I may wish his writing style was less erudite, his message and scholarship are worth the reader's effort.

This is a fine Benedictine book. It brings us back to the basics, and points out--in a very readable way--how St. Benedict's ministry was right out of the Bible! His Order could not have lasted this long and been such a vital part of Church (and world) history, if it had not been smiled upon by God. You just can't fail when you go by our Owner's Manual!He breaks the chapters down into readable sections for a daily meditation. He gives plenty of resources so the reader can go back to the Rule itself or to the Bible to further reflect on what he has written. His writing also has a warm way of making the reader's relationship with God a very loving relationship. While not the least bit sappy nor sentimental, this book warms the Benedictine/Monastic way of life with God's love which was meant to be received...and passed on to others.

Had to buys this book for a class. But glad I did!

Excellant! Very helpful for spiritual and moral growth. Following this way helps one to find peace and know Jesus in a very personal way!Kathleen Daley

Arrived in perfect shape, timely.Of several like books purchased recently, the descriptions by this author make it a gold mine to my mind!

Love the author’s style. Could not put down!!!