Welcome to the J-Book

On the campus of Saint John's University (SJU) discussions regarding the vitality of Benedictine values occur frequently.  We hope that the Benedictine values stimulate all of us--students, faculty, staff, administrators, the boards, parents’ councils, and the alumni--to think, speak, and act with a greater awareness of the Catholic, Benedictine spiritual foundation that supports what we do each day. These are the Benedictine values that animate the Saint John’s community:

Awareness of God

We acknowledge the primacy of God.

We look for God in the ordinary events of each day.

We believe that the divine presence is everywhere. (RB 19.1)

Community

We are committed to forming stable relationships in the community.

We hope that our personal development is guided by our relationships with others.

 …and may he bring us all together to everlasting life.  (RB 72.12)

Taking Counsel

We call the community together for counsel to make decisions.

We cultivate rootedness and a shared sense of mission: to stand firm in our promises.

As often as anything important is to be done…the abbot shall call the whole community together and explain what the business is… ( RB 3.1)

Respect for Persons

We reverence all persons.

We respect each person regardless of class, cultural heritage, or professional skill.

No one is to pursue what is judged best for oneself, but instead, what is better for someone else. (RB 72.7)

Dignity of Work

We are committed to stability of place.

We appreciate the dignity of work in God’s creation.

…they live by the labor of their hands.  (RB 48.8)

Hospitality

We extend hospitality and respect to all persons.

We offer warmth, acceptance, and joy in welcoming others.

Let all…be received as Christ.  (RB 53.1)

Stewardship

We reverence all creation.

We appreciate and care lovingly for all the goods and buildings of this place.

Regard all utensils and goods as if they were sacred vessels of the altar.  (RB 31.10)

Truthful Living

We foster an environment for transformation of the whole person (conversatio).

We practice enthusiasm for conversatio.

Through love, all…will now begin to be observed without effort, as though naturally , from habit,…out of love for Christ, good habit, and delight in virtue.  (RB 7.68-69)

Moderation

We are committed to practicing simplicity and frugality.

We are content with living simply and finding balance in work, prayer, and leisure.

All things are to be done with moderation.  (RB 48.9)

Listening

We listen reverently with the ear of our heart.

We hear keenly and sensitively the voices of all persons and all created beings.

Listen…with the ear of your heart.  (RB Prologue 1)

Common Good

We integrate a commitment to the common good and respect for the individual.

We attempt to develop a robust sense of the common good.

We intend to establish a school for the Lord’s service.…We hope to set down nothing harsh, nothing burdensome.  The good of all concerned however, may prompt us to a little strictness in order to amend faults and to safeguard love.  (RB Prologue 45-47)

Justice

We are committed to practicing justice.

We work toward a just order in our immediate environment and in the larger society.

…That in all things God may be glorified.  (RB 57.9)

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J-Book
Office of Student Development
Saint John’s University
Collegeville, MN 56321
(320) 363-2737

E-mail Tonya Miller