Lent Rule

Start in Lent but not only for Lent!

Laity’s discipline: the Ebbsfleet Rule of Life
(From the Bishop of Ebbsfleet to Church Times)

Sir, — Further to your welcome feature on the spiritual discipline of the laity, your readers might care to see the Ebbsfleet Rule of Life.

It is intended to suggest positive engagement with the Christian life, and has been welcomed by those of other traditions. Its seven clauses hint at the search for perfection to which the Lord calls us, however much we fall short:

1. We attend the Eucharist and receive Holy Communion, especially on Sundays and principal feasts and holy days.
2. We study Holy Scripture regularly, especially the Gospel of the Day.
3. We take some part in Daily Prayer, whether at church or at home.
4. We practise examination of life and habits of quietness and solitude.
5. We give generously and regularly to support the work of the Church.
6. We give of our talents and our time in the service of others, mindful of our responsibilities as citizens.
7. We pray and work for justice and peace and the coming of God’s kingdom.

ANDREW EBBSFLEET
Bishop’s House, Dry Sandford
Abingdon OX13 6JP