Day Two – Handing on What We Have Received


day2Question
:  Tradition is often cited as an authoritative source, with roots in the past. How does it function in the present Rule, and in the community’s life?

Br. Kevin Hackett: Tradition is such a rich word, which in its Latin origins (traditio) means simply, “that which is handed on or over.” A past of some sort is presumed, of course, but the orientation is toward the future (for us, God’s future) rather than the past. I experience our Rule of Life to be just that—and I can say that because I come from that tier of men who arrived in the community after the Rule had become a finished, or I should say more accurately, a published document. And I already have the sense that while there is much in it that I want to see handed on to the next generation, there are parts that are clearly not going to move forward in the natural process of winnowing and revision.

2 Comments

  1. The Rev. Canon Charles Black (Charlie for short!) on March 10, 2011 at 15:41

    OK short version – I was in a retreat situation where I was able to reflect on the RULE. I watch for your reflections with interest and prayer! CSB

  2. The Rev. Canon Charles Black (Charlie for short!) on March 10, 2011 at 15:39

    Brothers – By some stretch of good luck I had a time in a placement which gave me time to make it like a retreat for two weeks. My theme was the Rule for reflection and prayer. God works in mysterious etc etc.

    Charlie

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