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One of the greatest treasures of the Catholic spiritual tradition is the ancient practice of Lectio Divina—the prayerful reading of Sacred Scripture that has nourished saints, monks, priests, and faithful Christians for centuries. In this retreat, Fr. Cassian Folsom, OSB, shares the wisdom of the Benedictine monastic tradition and invites viewers into a deeper life of prayer rooted in silence, Scripture, and the presence of God.
As founder of the Benedictine Monastery of San Benedetto in Norcia, Italy, Fr. Cassian has devoted his life to restoring authentic Benedictine monasticism and helping Catholics rediscover the spiritual riches of the Church. His conferences combine profound theological insight with practical guidance that can transform daily prayer.
Throughout this retreat, Fr. Cassian explores the ancient method of Lectio Divina, explaining how Christians can move beyond simply reading the Bible to truly encountering Christ in His Word. Drawing upon the Rule of St. Benedict, the Desert Fathers, and centuries of monastic experience, he demonstrates how Scripture becomes the foundation of contemplation, interior conversion, and union with God.
Whether you are just beginning a life of prayer or have practiced Lectio Divina for years, these conferences offer timeless spiritual wisdom. Fr. Cassian explains the importance of recollection, silence, humility, perseverance, and allowing God’s Word to shape every aspect of one’s life.
This retreat is especially valuable for those interested in:
- Lectio Divina
- Benedictine spirituality
- Monastic prayer
- Contemplative prayer
- Sacred Scripture
- The Rule of St. Benedict
- The Desert Fathers
- Catholic spiritual growth
- Mental prayer
- Living a deeper Catholic life
May these conferences inspire you to cultivate a richer prayer life and a closer friendship with Our Lord through the wisdom of the Benedictine tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Fr. Cassian Folsom?
Fr. Cassian Folsom, OSB, is a Benedictine monk and founder of the Monastery of San Benedetto in Norcia, Italy. He is widely known for his teaching on Benedictine spirituality, monastic life, Sacred Liturgy, and the Catholic spiritual tradition.
What is Lectio Divina?
Lectio Divina, meaning “Divine Reading,” is the Church’s ancient method of prayerfully reading Sacred Scripture. Rather than reading simply for information, the faithful listen attentively for God’s voice through reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation.
What is Benedictine spirituality?
Benedictine spirituality follows the teachings of St. Benedict, emphasizing prayer, work, humility, obedience, stability, silence, and continual conversion of life. Its goal is union with God through faithful daily living.
Who should watch this retreat?
This retreat is suitable for anyone seeking a deeper prayer life, whether they are new to Catholic spirituality or have spent years studying the spiritual masters.
Can beginners benefit from this retreat?
Absolutely. Fr. Cassian explains profound spiritual concepts in a clear and approachable way while remaining faithful to the Church’s rich tradition.
Is this retreat based on Sacred Scripture?
Yes. Throughout the conferences Fr. Cassian continually returns to Sacred Scripture, interpreting it through the teachings of the Fathers, the saints, and the Benedictine tradition.
What should I have while watching?
Many viewers find it helpful to have:
- A Bible
- A notebook
- A copy of the Rule of St. Benedict
- A Catechism of the Catholic Church
- A quiet place for prayer
What is the goal of this retreat?
The goal is not simply to learn about prayer but to become a person of prayer by allowing Christ to transform the heart through Scripture, silence, and faithful perseverance.
Recommended Reading
To continue studying these topics, consider reading:
- The Holy Bible
- The Rule of St. Benedict
- Conferences of St. John Cassian
- Institutes of St. John Cassian
- Sayings of the Desert Fathers
- The Imitation of Christ
- Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales
- The Dialogue of St. Gregory the Great
- Catechism of the Catholic Church
Related Topics
If you enjoyed this retreat, you may also appreciate conferences on:
- St. Benedict
- The Desert Fathers
- Mental Prayer
- Contemplative Prayer
- Monasticism
- The Divine Office
- Sacred Liturgy
- Humility
- Obedience
- Silence
- Spiritual Reading
- The Interior Life
- Catholic Prayer
- Rule of St. Benedict












