On 1 January 2025, Karin Keller-Sutter assumed the office of President of the Swiss Confederation, drawing our attention to a striking interview she gave in 2024 with Abbot Urban Federer OSB. This dialogue, titled “Das Fundament des mutigen Handelns” (“The Foundation of Courageous Action”), resonated deeply with us for its reflection on the Benedictine Rule and its relevance in today's world. As a contribution to the ongoing conversation about monastic wisdom and public life, we are pleased to present this summary and reflection for our readers. -Editors

A Dialogue Rooted in Wisdom and Responsibility

In a rare and compelling conversation between two prominent Swiss figures — Federal Councillor Karin Keller-Sutter and Abbot Urban Federer OSB — deep spiritual and civic values converge around a shared respect for the Benedictine Rule. Published in April 2024 by the Swiss Federal Department of Finance, the interview explores the meaning of courage, leadership, and community in both political and monastic contexts.

Karin Keller-Sutter, a seasoned Swiss politician, has served on the Federal Council since 2019 and now holds the office of president as of 2025. Known for her liberal-conservative stance and administrative acumen, Keller-Sutter brings a background in translation and public safety into her public service. Her partner in conversation, Urban Federer, is Abbot of Einsiedeln Abbey and President of the Swiss Benedictine Congregation. A former teacher and respected editor of Salve, Federer is known for his thoughtful application of monastic principles to broader society.

Their exchange opens with a meditation on courage, a virtue foundational to both governance and monastic life. Keller-Sutter speaks candidly about the importance of having a firm inner foundation in order to act boldly, especially in times of crisis or uncertainty. Federer, drawing from the Benedictine Rule, echoes this by highlighting how the Rule calls for "discretion" and "resoluteness" in decision-making — a balance between reflection and action.

Stability and Listening: Political and Monastic Parallels

Much of the conversation returns to two Benedictine pillars: stabilitas loci (stability of place) and obedientia (obedient listening). For Benedictines, these are not constraints but liberating commitments that foster depth, resilience and humility. Keller-Sutter reflects on how political leaders benefit from such grounding, especially when facing populist pressures or rapidly shifting public sentiments. She notes that “without inner stability, outer action quickly becomes erratic.”

Federer draws a compelling parallel between the monastic vow of stability and the political virtue of steadfastness. He remarks that while monks do not chase after every new trend, politicians, too, must learn to anchor their decisions in enduring values. Both agree that this anchored approach allows for a more courageous, clear-sighted engagement with the world.

Humility as the Path to Service

One of the more profound turns in the conversation comes when discussing humilitas — the virtue of humility, so central to Benedictine life. For both interlocutors, humility is not weakness but a posture of openness and service. Keller-Sutter shares that it is precisely this humility that allows leaders to listen — to truly hear the concerns of others, including critics.

This resonates deeply with The Rule of Saint Benedict, where humility is described as the pathway to wisdom. Abbot Federer reminds readers that Benedict places humility at the heart of the monastic journey: a ladder of ascent that paradoxically begins with descent — lowering oneself in order to rise in compassion and truth.

A Shared Vision of the Common Good

At its core, the conversation illuminates how monastic and civic vocations — though distinct — can share a common orientation toward the good of the community. Whether through prayer and stability in a cloister or through service and courage in public office, The Rule of Saint Benedict offers a timeless framework for ethical leadership. As Abbot Federer and President Keller-Sutter make clear, such leadership is deeply needed in our fragmented and uncertain times.

Their exchange offers not only a glimpse into the spiritual depth of Swiss cultural life but also a reminder that ancient wisdom can still inform and inspire modern responsibility.

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