Kevin Miller has posted on Out of Ur with a some great thoughts about a PROVEN MODEL FOR SPIRITUAL FORMATION. What is this model? The monastery. Whether you agree with him or not, it raises some valid points. And anyone attempting to live an alternative expression of their Christian faith should give some serious reflection to what he has to say and how to incorporate these ideas into a faith-community. Here’s a quote to whet your appetite:

“So I return to my original question: What would happen to your life if you lived in close geographical community and relationship with other people; if you lived in submission to authority; if you practiced silence and simplicity and discipline; if you regularly read the Bible and prayed and meditated on what you read; if you made study part of your life; and if you worked hard in some daily occupation, seeing your labor as full of dignity and offering it to God? At least Saint Benedict thinks you’d become a healthier human being and godlier Christian. And 1,500 years of history would prove him right.”