Becoming a Community of Disciples

Chapter 1: Legislative Teachings – Organization of the Monastery

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the lowest place and not occupy a higher place (Luke 14:8–10), 3 we ought to realize that when we who have the same purpose and goal all come together, especially if we are giving proof of our humility among the many or the great, it is fitting that each desire to take in advance the lower place, according to the Lord’s command. 4 But on the other hand, if the matter comes into contention over this and one tries to displace the other even if from a lower place, it is most unacceptable, 5 for an occasion of turbulence and disquiet arises from this, and if no-one begins to yield to the other, and if they are stirred to fight over it, they will be just like those who fight over the first seats. 6 Wherefore we ought carefully to consider and follow what is fitting for each of us in this matter, and assuredly yield to him who is entrusted with the responsibility of hospitality, 7 and also keep order and comply with him in other matters as well as the order of seating, that the saying may be fulfilled in us, let all you do be done decently and in order (cf. 1 Cor 14:40). Serving Sick Brothers (RBas §36) Q: In what disposition ought we to serve the sick brothers? R: 1 As offering our service to the Lord himself who said: When you did it to the least of these my brothers, you did it to me (Matt 25:40). 2 Yet it helps us to preserve such a disposition in our ministry, if those who receive services from us are such to whom service is deservedly offered. 3 So those who preside ought to take care that they to whom service is done are not such as indulge the flesh and the stomach, 4 but instead are found proven in the