Fr. Boniface Hicks (Monk): Becoming a Man in a World That Wants You Passive

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May 29, 2025

Fr. Boniface Hicks, a Benedictine monk and spiritual director, shares insights from over 20 years of guiding men through identity crises and spiritual battles. He discusses the compelling need for clarity and courage in a world that prefers passivity. Key topics include the ancient wisdom of St. Benedict, the misunderstood power of anger, and the importance of Marian devotion in healing masculinity. Fr. Hicks emphasizes the significance of personal habits and spiritual direction in reshaping modern masculinity and nurturing authentic relationships.

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INSIGHT

Rule of St. Benedict's Wisdom

The Rule of St. Benedict is a 1,500-year-old guide for monastic life with timeless principles applicable today.
It emphasizes living a regular life aware of God's presence everywhere, shaping our daily actions and character.

ANECDOTE

St. Boniface Mission and Martyrdom

St. Boniface was a missionary monk who confronted pagan practices courageously.
He was martyred defending faith with a book, symbolizing courage through scripture.

ADVICE

Use Spiritual Direction Wisely

Seek spiritual direction to deepen your relationship with God when you have a prayer life.
Use spiritual direction to relate your struggles to God with openness to mercy and understanding.

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The Rule of St. Benedict

St. Benedict of Nursia

The Rule of St. Benedict, written by the Italian saint in the 6th century, is a foundational text for Western monasticism. It outlines a comprehensive way of life emphasizing prayer, work, community, and obedience to God. The rule's enduring influence stems from its balanced approach, integrating spiritual disciplines with practical aspects of daily life. It emphasizes moderation, humility, and the pursuit of holiness within a structured community setting. The Rule's principles have been adapted and applied beyond monastic life, influencing various aspects of Christian spirituality and leadership.

Through the Heart of St. Joseph

Fr. Boniface Hicks O.S.B.

In 'Through the Heart of St. Joseph', Fr. Boniface Hicks delves into the spiritual significance of St. Joseph, emphasizing how his life can transform and heal us. The book explores St. Joseph’s path and how his virtues of vulnerability, littleness, silence, and hiddenness can guide us towards a life of humble trust and steadfast courage. It also draws on the experiences of saints who lived the 'Joseph Option' to illustrate how we can emulate St. Joseph’s example. The book is praised for its accessible and ground-breaking contribution to understanding St. Joseph’s spirituality and its potential to deepen readers' devotion to him.

Clearing Emotional Clutter

Mindfulness Practices for Letting Go of What's Blocking Your Fulfillment and Transformation

Donald Altman

This book provides simple yet powerful mindfulness techniques to help readers overcome emotional baggage, modify harmful habits and patterns, and find joy and fulfillment. Altman combines modern neuroscience with ancient practices to show how daily mindfulness can transform difficult moments and enhance emotional health[1][3].

True Devotion to Mary

Louis de Montfort

Brother Hermenegild

In this book, St. Louis-Marie de Montfort outlines his teaching on devotion to Mary, proposing a total dedication or consecration of oneself to Jesus through the hands of Mary. The book explains that true devotion to Mary is not an end in itself but a necessary means to achieve a closer union with Jesus Christ. It details various practices, including the recitation of the Rosary and a 33-day preparation period, to help live out this devotion. The goal is to achieve a perfect union with Jesus Christ through Mary's intercession and guidance[1][3][4].

heart of trauma

Bonnie Badenoch

Catholicism and Fundamentalism

Carl Keating