In Norbertine history, there are definite discernible directions in which the community began and continues to grow in service to the Church. This direction has been and continues to be restated and redesigned in each age, according to the lights and experiences of that age. The living community, in order to remain dynamic, has had to consider the uniqueness of its members, the different events and experiences of each age, different challenges and the impact of society and the variety of cultures in which the Order exists, and even different insights into the understanding of the Gospel itself. Despite this dynamism, the fundamental goals, means and traditions of the Order have remained constant since the twelfth century, and from this stable basis, Norbertine spirituality flowers and grows. Just two words, but words that are pregnant and challenging.
Norbertine spirituality is ecclesial.
The Church is where Norbertines are and always will be. Canons are called to Eucharist and the choral celebration of the Hours, and to do so not only for the Church, but in the midst of the Church, so that all are invited to celebrate these liturgies publicly in churches of Canons and with the community. The canonical life requires the Canon to serve the needs of the faithful, above all, but not exclusively, in the liturgy, which is the chief source of building unity and charity, of building up the Church. sharing all things in common, selling property and goods, dividing everything on the basis of each one s need , i.e., the vows of obedience and poverty in contemporary terms. Obedience is not simply doing what someone else decides, but contributing one s talents and insights to community discussion and discernment, and a willingness to live with the results as the work of the Spirit. Poverty is not economic destitution, but sharing all one has, including material goods, for the good of all and the service of others, especially the poor.