On The Death Of St. Benedict

“Some months before he departed this life, Benedict forewarned his disciples on what day he was to die; and he ordered his grave to be opened six days before he was carried to it. On the sixth day, he would be carried into the Church, where he received the Eucharist, and then… with his eyes lifted up to heaven, and absorbed in prayer, he gave up the ghost. Two monks saw his soul rising to heaven, clothed in a most precious garment and surrounded with lights, and one of a most glorious and awe-inspiring aspect standing above, whom they heard saying: This is the way whereby Benedict, the beloved of the Lord, goes up to heaven.” (The Divine Office, March 21, Lectio 6, On The Death of St. Benedict)