Benedict Quote by Ken Shigematsu
““Hospitality is a prized virtue of monastic communities. Benedict's rule says: 'All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say, "I was a stranger and you welcomed me."' Brother Alphonsus served as a doorkeeper in the seventeenth century at a Jesuit college in Majorca, Spain. Each time someone knocked at the door he would reply, 'I am coming, Lord!' This practice reminded him to treat each person with as much respect as if it were Jesus himself at the door.””
About This Quote
Source Historical: Benedictine monastic tradition, 6th century; Jesuit practice, 17th century Majorca
Treat every guest as sacred, reflecting Christ’s welcome, fostering deep respect and hospitality.
In simple terms: See each visitor as a holy guest.
Key Takeaway
Offer genuine, reverent hospitality.
Themes
hospitality
respect
spirituality
Mood
reverent
inspirational
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- church gatherings
- hospitality services
- personal encounters
- community events
Key Concepts
Christian ethics
monastic tradition
service
Questions to Reflect On
- How can secular spaces honor this principle?
- What practices nurture respect for strangers?
A Different Perspective
Modern contexts may lack shared religious framing.
