St. Benedict is known as the founder of Western monasticism, and was highly regarded for his example of penance and self-discipline.
Hie example of holiness continues to inspire many religious men and women today in their daily struggle for self-mastery.
Here is a prayer by Dom Prosper Gueranger in his Liturgical Year that asks for St. Benedict’s intercession during Lent.
St. Benedict, O blessed favorite of God,
pray for all the faithful of Christ
during these days which are consecrated to thoughts and works of penance.
It was in the midst of the holy austerities of Lent
that you went to the abode of everlasting delight.
Help us Christians, who are at this very time in the same campaign of penance.
Rouse our courage by your example and precepts.
Teach us to keep down the flesh and to subject it to the spirit as you did.
Obtain for us a little of your blessed spirit,
that turning away from this vain world,
we may think on the eternal years to come.
And today we celebrate...
