Abstract
Montecassino lifting itself from the ruins and rubble of World War II is symbolic of the Benedictine spirit that has come down through fourteen centuries and that shall continue to function in the great work of the Church on earth till time is no more. In the oration for the feast of Saint Benedict, July 11, the definition of that spirit is given as the Church prays: "O God, who hast deigned to fill thy most blessed Confessor Benedict with the spirit of all the just. Then follows a challenge to the gigantic work of Benedictine armies— past, present and future— "Grant to us thy servants who celebrate his solemnity, that filled with the same spirit, we may faithfully fulfill with the help of thy grace, the promises we have made." Yes, these words constitute a challenge to brave Benedictines to carry on and not to count the cost.