Lay Cistercians of Gethsemani Abbey

Since the thirteenth century founders of religious orders have developed a variety of spiritualities, such as Franciscan, Benedictine, Carmelite, Dominican, or Ignatian (Jesuit), for the purpose of enhancing formation in the Christian life. Lay persons in turn have adapted elements of these spiritual charisms to their ordinary life as Christians. It is in this same vein that the characteristics of Cistercian monastic spirituality have recently attracted laypersons to explore the integration of some elements of Cistercian spirituality with their own Christian formation.

The basis of formation in the Cistercian/Benedictine tradition is the Rule of St. Benedict. Although the Rule was written in the sixth century as a rule of life for Christian monks in the Western Church, laypersons have found portions of the Rule applicable to them in their secular lifestyle.

For persons who choose to adopt a contemplative spirituality according to the Cistercian tradition, it is suggested that they become familiar with the Rule of St. Benedict, attain a general knowledge of Cistercian history, and develop an understanding of Cistercian spirituality.

The following list of reading material is recommended for one's initial study and reflection:
	Rule of St. Benedict Spirituality for Everyday Living: An Adaptation of the Rule of St. Benedict. Brian Taylor (Liturgical Press, 1992)
	The Cistercian Way. Andre Louf (Cistercian Publications, 1989)
	Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict. Esther de Waal (The Liturgical Press, 1984)
	Wisdom Distilled from the Daily: Living the Rule of St. Benedict Today. Joan Chittister, OSB (Harper Collins Publishers, 1991)
	A School of Love: The Cistercian Way to Holiness. M. Basil Pennington, O.C.S.O. (Morehouse Publishing, 2000)
	The Way of Simplicity: The Cistercian Tradition. Esther de Waal (OrbisBooks,1998)
	The Waters of Siloe. Thomas Merton (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Publishers,1949)

Cistercian spirituality!