In October 2023, Saint John\u2019s School of Theology and Seminary received a Compelling Preaching Initiative Grant from the Lilly Foundation. Saint John\u2019s approach (Obsculta <\/em>Preaching Initiative) takes its name from the first word of The Rule, \u201cListen,\u201d grounding us in our Benedictine charism and our Christian call to prepare our hearts to hear the word of God, and to respond in love to those whom we encounter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A central piece of Saint John\u2019s grant proposal includes the development of Lectio Divina groups for preaching, in which listening to one another \u2014 and the Spirit \u2014 guides our reflection on the Word of God. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This Advent, we are delighted to share the prayer, lectio, and work of four Sisters of St. Benedict\u2019s Monastery in St. Joseph, MN. Just down the road from Saint John\u2019s Abbey, they met regularly to read and pray, using the traditional Benedictine practice of Lectio Divina, with the Sunday Gospel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As you prepare your own heart for the coming of the Lord this Advent season, we invite you to draw upon this series as food for your prayer as we work together, seeking to grow to the full stature of Christ Jesus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n