Benedict of Nursia, a prominent saint in the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox Christian traditions. Born in year 480, died in 547. He is most remembered for his foundation of several monk communities in Italy and founded <em>the Order of Saint Benedict:</em>
The Benedictines do not work under a single hierarchy but are instead organized as a collection of independent monastic communities Unlike other religious orders, the Benedictines do not have a higher general or motherhouse with global regulation. On the contrary, the order is represented globally by the Benedictine Confederation.
The Community works as a self-sufficient organization with almost no hierarchical structures (present in almost all other religious Orders).
Benedict of Nursia is also known for the <em>"Rule of Saint Benedict"</em>
A book of precepts he wrote. The adscripts of the Rule seek spiritual growth in the fulfillment of their vocation.
The motto is pax, ora et labora: Peace, pray and work.