Fridays with Benedict: Chapter 57, The Artisans of the Monastery

Chapter 57 of The Rule of St. Benedict has to do with artisans practicing within the monastery. Happily, Benedict welcomes artisans into the monastic community. However, Benedict is keen to have the artisans practice their art and craft with humility. Artists and artisans aren't to become celebrities or elite. No rockstars allowed.

¹If there are artisans in the monastery, they are to practice their craft with all humility...²If one of them becomes puffed up by his skillfulness in his craft, and feels he is conferring something on the monastery, ³he is to be removed from practicing his craft and not allowed to resume it unless, after manifesting his humility, he is so ordered by the abbot.

One wonders if praise bands need to read this every week.

But seriously, talent, particularly artistic talent, is a gift for the community, but it does present a host of temptations as the talented are honored, respected and praised over those with less talent. The talented get to be "up front" while those with less talent are never seen or heard from. For example, when was the last time you heard a mentally disabled person deliver a sermon? Or lead singing or a prayer?