M. Basil Pennington
M. Basil Pennington: A Life of Spirituality and Service
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Full Name and Common Aliases
M. Basil Pennington was born on June 13, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York. He is often referred to by his monastic name, Basil Pennington, or as Father Basil.
Birth and Death Dates
June 13, 1930 – February 3, 2005
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Trappist Monk, Author, Spiritual Director
Early Life and Background
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Born into a Catholic family in Brooklyn, M. Basil Pennington was raised with strong spiritual roots. His parents encouraged his early interest in prayer and spirituality. After completing high school, he attended the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he studied literature and philosophy.
Early Life and Background (continued)
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Pennington's experiences during World War II had a profound impact on him. He served in the U.S. Army as an interpreter in France, where he became increasingly disillusioned with the conflict. This experience sparked a deep desire for spirituality and service that would guide his life.
Major Accomplishments
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In 1954, Pennington joined the Trappist monastery of St. Joseph's Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts. He spent many years as a monk, becoming a respected spiritual director and author. His books on prayer, contemplation, and spirituality have been widely read and studied.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some notable works by Father Basil include:
"The Bread That Is Broken: The Eucharist in the New Testament" (1969)
"Love: The Crossway to Christ" (1972)
Pennington's writings are renowned for their clarity, depth, and accessibility. They have been instrumental in guiding countless readers on their spiritual journeys.
Impact and Legacy
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Father Basil Pennington's impact extends far beyond his written works. His service as a spiritual director has touched the lives of numerous individuals, offering guidance and support during times of need.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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M. Basil Pennington is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
Inspirational writings: His books have been translated into multiple languages and continue to inspire readers worldwide.
Spiritual guidance: As a respected spiritual director, Father Basil has helped countless individuals deepen their faith and spirituality.
* Legacy of service: His dedication to prayer, contemplation, and service serves as an enduring example for those seeking to live a more spiritual life.
Quotes by M. Basil Pennington
Monks realize well that when the consciousness of one person is raised, the whole of humanity is raised; when the quality of life of one improves, all improve. Or, to put it in another, more biblical, way, the increased health and vitality of any one cell vitalizes the whole Body of Christ. 38.
Never in the known history of man has a people or nation stockpiled weapons and in the end not used them. But if we use the weapons we have stockpiled it will be the end of nations and peoples if not the end of the whole race. Never has the human family so urgently needed a transformation of consciousness. Those who devote themselves to contemplative meditation are performing a most basic and loving service. It is a very real response to the call to love and to act.
In the silence, whether we listen to the creation around us, the words of revelation, or the deepest stirrings of our own hearts, we begin to perceive another voice, one that is too often lost in the static of life. It is no use saying: ”Speak, Lord, your servant wants to hear,” if We never risk the silence to listen. 48.
Monks realize well that when the consciousness of one person is raised, the whole of humanity is raised; when the quality of life of one improves, all improve. Or, to put it in another, more biblical, way, the increased health and vitality of any one cell vitalizes the whole Body of Christ. 38
Martin Buber as described for basic virtues cultivated by the Hasidim to overcome the separation of the sacred and secular. . . . St. Benedict spoke of them as truly seeking God, zeal for a humble way of life, zeal for obedience, and zeal for the opus of God. Buber catalogues them as kavana (single-mindedness), shiflut (humility), avada (service), and hitlahavut (fire of ecstasy). 129
We can make a practice of letting go of unnecessary negative thoughts and feelings (our prayer word– a quick flight to the center, while the thought is allowed to float away– can be used to advantage in this) and cultivating joyful, positive ones. 132
Benedict and Bernard and the other true monastic peacemakers of history have been effective because they have acted from a deep source of peace within themselves, dating a context for peace. This is the contribution a Christian man or woman of peace can make.
What we can do now to bring about his kingdom of justice is to cooperate in the establishment of justice in that portion of his kingdom over which we have some immediate control: ourselves. Let us begin the pursuit of justice and peace by cleaning up our own lives and establishing peace within our own hearts.
The pilgrims continue to come. Only God knows what each one of us brings, and with what kind of heart. We come mystically to this cave. We know the mess we bring and the often distracted heart that brings it. But this is all we have--all we are. One stretches out his arms to receive.
The fascination of trifles obscures the good,” says the Wise Man. It is difficult in the midst of much doing and seeing to keep alive and present to the deepest reality, to the really real. And so the monk goes apart…