Becoming a Community of Disciples

100

Becoming a Community of Disciples

Reverence in Prayer (RBen §20) 1 If when we wish to request something of powerful men we do not presume to do so except with humility and reverence, 2 how much more ought we to offer supplications to the universal Lord and God in all humility and purity of devotion? 3 And we know it is not on account of our wordiness that we are heard, but rather through purity of heart and tears of compunction. 4 And therefore prayer ought to be brief and pure, unless it happens to be prolonged by a sentiment inspired by divine grace. 5 In community, however, prayer should always be brief; and at the signal given by the superior all should rise together. The Oratory of the Monastery (RBen §52) 1 The oratory is to be what it is called, and nothing else should be done or kept there. 2 When the Work of God is finished all should go out in complete silence and with reverence for God, 3 so that a brother who wishes to pray by himself will not be impeded by another’s insensitivity. 4 But if he wishes to pray in solitude, he should enter to pray with simplicity, not in a loud voice, but with tears and attentiveness of heart. 5 And therefore one who is not performing this work is not to be permitted to remain in the oratory after the Work of God, so that, as was said, no one else is impeded. Attending Prayer (RBas §107) Q: If someone engaged in work in the store-room or the kitchen or a similar task does not hasten to be present at the order of psalmody and of prayer, does his soul suffer no loss?