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  LET THE ORATORY BE WHAT IT IS CALLED, A PLACE OF PRAYER
  by St. Benedict of Nursia
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Summary: St. Benedict emphasizes the oratory as a sacred space dedicated
solely to prayer and the importance of maintaining reverence and silence
within it.

Topics: "Sacred Prayer", "Reverent Worship"
Scripture References: Psalm 51:17, Matthew 6:6, Luke 18:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, James 5:16

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of maintaining the
oratory as a sacred place of prayer, free from distractions and
misconduct. He instructs that after the Work of God is completed, all
should exit in silence to uphold reverence for God, allowing space for
private prayer without hindrance. St. Benedict encourages individuals to
pray with sincerity, tears, and fervor of heart, highlighting the
significance of genuine and heartfelt communication with God. Those who
do not approach prayer in this manner are not to remain in the oratory
to prevent obstruction to others seeking intimate communion with God.

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CONTENT
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Let the oratory be what it is called, a place of prayer; and let nothing
else be done there or kept there. When the Work of God is ended, let all
go out in perfect silence, and let reverence for God be observed, so
that any sister who may wish to pray privately will not be hindered by
another's misconduct. And at other times also, if anyone should want to
pray by herself, let her go in simply and pray, not in a loud voice but
with tears and fervor of heart. She who does not say her prayers in this
way, therefore, shall not be permitted to remain in the oratory when the
Work of God is ended, lest another be hindered, as we have said.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-benedict-of-nursia/let-the-oratory-be-what-it-is-called-a-place-of-prayer/
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