The Benedict Option by {author}: summary and why it matters
Rod Dreher's 2017 call for Christians to build tight-knit communities, schools and practices that preserve the faith against secular culture.
Also known as A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation
The book
| Author | Rod Dreher |
|---|---|
| First published | 2017 |
| First publisher | Sentinel |
| Kind of book | Social criticism |
What it argues
Dreher draws on Alasdair MacIntyre's remark that we are waiting for another, doubtless very different, St. Benedict, to argue that the culture war has been lost and that Christians must prepare for a long period in which faith is a minority view. He proposes not withdrawal from society but the deliberate construction of strong local communities.
The recommendations include a rule of life with prayer and fasting, support for church worship, Christian classical schools or homeschooling, careful control of technology in the home, work in trades and local businesses that serve the community, and hospitality. He draws lessons from the Benedictine monks of Norcia, Italy.
The book sparked controversy, with critics saying it counseled retreat and defenders replying that it was about renewal.
Why it matters
It named a question many believers were asking and provided a framework for discussion about parenting, school choice and online life. Whether one agrees or not, it is part of the argument over how religious conservatives should engage the wider culture.
About the author
Rod Dreher (born 1967) is an American journalist who worked at the Dallas Morning News and at National Review and wrote for The American Conservative. He has described a path from Methodism to Catholicism to Orthodox Christianity. His earlier books include Crunchy Cons and The Little Way of Ruthie Leming. The book was published in 2017.
Who should read it
Pastors, parents and readers following debates on the right about faith and politics.
Sources
Profile last reviewed November 8, 2026