Horses of Hospitality: A Transformative Pathway to the Christian Praxis of Love

The Rule of Saint Benedict (circa 530 AD) is considered foundational to the practice of hospitality in western monasticism and the Christian tradition, and encourages a mutual, self-sacrificing love that symbolizes authentic community. The Rule strictly adheres to the teachings of Christ, and in particular, instructs that all guests "are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say: 'I was a stranger and you welcomed me.'"¹ Living according to The Rule has led many to seek wisdom in unlikely places. This essay examines how the writings and spirituality of Benedict of Nursia help invoke new interpretations of the embodiment of love and living in solidarity with all of creation amid the reality of suffering. This is shown through insights into sacred encounters experienced in equine-assisted therapy at a facility located in the Texas hill country. The equine center is presented as an example of a community that bestows hospitality and opportunities to all beings of differing abilities. In doing so, it generates an empowering interconnectedness that is rooted in a spirituality of inclusiveness, shared vulnerability, and kinship. The reflection concludes by considering how this understanding and practice of radical hospitality may compel contemporary Christians to be the face of Christ to others more freely, and more alert to Christ's face in human and non-human manifestations.

THE RULE

First, a concise look at The Rule of Saint Benedict is studied for the purpose of highlighting its relevance to the discussion of hospitality, recognition of God in personal experience, and envisioning life as communal. Benedict wrote The Rule while in Monte Cassino, Italy, during the sixth century which was one of the most turbulent periods in the history of Europe. (The Rule is compared to the Regula Magistri or the Rule of the Master, believed to have been written anonymously two to three decades before The Rule. Benedict appears to have expanded and revised The Master in light of his own experience of a way of life committed to community and contemplation.)² At this time, there was confusion among the faithful as theologians and bishops argued about the divinity of Jesus and dependence on God's grace to be holy. It was also the age when many sought the monastic way of life. In response, Benedict recognized the importance of establishing wise teachings with order and discipline that would help his fellow monks follow the way of truth and live a more fulfilling Christian life. The Rule is defined by personal and communal prayer originating from the reading (Lectio Divina) of Scripture and the Fathers of the Church. Benedict's way is immersed in humility, obedience, and a meditative attitude which cultivates simplicity and beauty. It is intended to shape life in an agape love (a selfless love and unconditional commitment shown by God for humanity and of humanity's for God) that is representative of authentic community and fully attentive to the flourishing of all of its members. Benedict says, "Your way of acting should be different from the world's way."³ This alternative way of living is more contemplative than active and leads to a shared sense of ownership and responsibility for the activities of the common life.⁴ Benedict's spirituality is Christocentric: "the love of Christ must come before all else."⁵ The abbot is directed to "arrange everything that the strong have something to yearn for and the weak nothing to run from" so "that in all things God may be glorified."⁶

In "the tools for good works," the monk begins with the commandment to "love the Lord God with your whole heart, your whole soul and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself." He instructs disciples to "listen with the ear of the heart" and "help the troubled and console the sorrowing." Strict guidance forbids giving "a hollow greeting of peace" or turning away when someone needs your love.⁷ In all things, followers of Christ are to place their hope in God alone and to never lose faith in God's mercy. Especially countercultural to...