12 Marks of a New Monasticism

May 28, 2007 | Filed Under books, new monasticism |

12-marks.jpgAlong with a couple of friends I have been reading “School(s) for Conversion: 12 Marks of a New Monasticism” edited by The Rutba House. Those involved in this writing project believe there is a radical grassroots movement within the North American church which they referred to as a “new monasticism.” While the movement is diverse they see it characterized by the following 12 marks:

1.  Relocation to the abandoned places of Empire.

2.  Sharing economic resources with fellow community members and the needy among us.

3.  Hospitality to the stranger.

4.  Lament for racial divisions within the church and our communities combined with the active pursuit of a just reconciliation.

5.  Humble submission to Chirst’s body, the church.

6.  Intentional formation in the way of Christ and the rule of the community along the lines of the old novitiate.

7.  Nurturing common life among members of intentional community.

8.  Support for celibate singles alongside monogamous married couples and their children.

9.  Geographical proximity to community members who share a common rule of life.

10.  Care for the plot of God’s earth given to us along with support of our local economics.

11.  Peacemaking in the midst of violence and conflict resolution within communities along the lines of Matthew 18.

12.  Commitment to a disciplined contemplative life.

Which of these 12 marks speak to you the most? Do you see or sense a “grassroots movement”? How are you currently participating in a new monasticism?

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