Benedictine cenobitic monasticism, originally a lay movement in the Church, finds its origin in the 6th Century teachings of St. Benedict's Rule. When we use the term "monasticism," what we are really talking about is the way a group of religious men or women seek God in the day-to-day routine of a particular monastic community. It is through the daily activities of the monastery (the common life) that Benedictine monastics share their lives and faith with one another. Following the spiritual directives outlined in St. Benedict's Rule, Christian men and women in monasteries have the opportunity to become more aware of the ever-present reality of God in their midst through praying, working, eating meals, and having leisure time together.  This may be clearly seen in the Benedictine motto "Ora et Labora" (Pray and Work).