“Pax” and “Ora et Labora”

The Latin word “pax” means peace, and “ora et labora” means prayer and work. These two mottos are of the Order of St. Benedict and are both an important part of Benedictine life.

The ancient Rule of St. Benedict, which spells out how religious should live in community, states in its prologue, “seek after peace and pursue it.” Living a life of prayer and work is the basis of Benedictine life.

Read the Rule of St. Benedict.