Christian Monasticism

Question 1

Guido of Arezzo

Answer 1

Benedictine Monk who is credited for inventing Western music notation: the four-line music staff

Question 2

rome attacked

Answer 2

• 410 AD – Rome is sacked by Visigoths (Germanic peoples from NE)
• 476 AD Odovacar (a Germanic warrior) deposes “last” emperor of Rome
• 535 AD Justinian’s army invades Italy
• 546 AD Rome is sacked by the Gothic king Totila and devastated
• By 560s Rome is “ruled” by the East, but it is largely destroyed.

Question 3

Mont Saint Michele

Answer 3

• a bishop built a small oratory in honor of Saint Michael
• birthplace of Christian Monasticism

Question 4

Christian monasticism

Answer 4

• radical response to the growing secularization and corruption within the church
• These early Christian monks and nuns sought a life of asceticism, prayer, and contemplation, dedicated solely to God

Question 5

Community of the Apostles

Answer 5

Jesus’ closest disciples, chosen by him to witness his teachings, miracles, and ultimately his death and resurrection

Question 6

The goal of human life

Answer 6

• to increase in charity (love of God and neighbor) and to decrease in selfishness. This world is a school of charity as preparation for the Kingdom.

The Monastery is a rigorous school of charity.

Question 7

THE RULE OF ST. AUGUSTINE

Answer 7

• 387 (April): Augustine is baptized with his son Adeodatus and his friend Alypius by Ambrose in Milan
• 387 (Summer): Monica dies
• 387-388: Travels back home to Thagaste, sells his property, gives it to the poor, and founds a monastic community with Adeodatus and Alypius
• 390: Adeodatus dies
• 391: Aug. ordained a priest
• 394: Alypius is consecrated a bishop of Thagaste
• 396: Augustine is consecrated a bishop of Hippo
• 400: writes the Rule of St. Augustine

Question 8

THE RULE OF ST. AUGUSTINE
QUOTE

Answer 8

“The chief motivation for your sharing life together is to live harmoniously in the house and to have one heart and one mind seeking God.” (1.2)

Question 9

The Scopos (purpose/goal)

Answer 9

purity of heart

Question 10

John Cassian, conferences

Answer 10

causes of selfishness: lust of the eyes (greed/envy), lust of the flesh (gluttony/sloth), pride of life (vainglory/wrath)

Monastic vow: poverty, chastity, obedience

Ascetical practice: almsgiving (works of mercy), fasting, prayer

Question 11

Vocation

Answer 11

honor the commandments to enter into life