Becoming a Community of Disciples

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Becoming a Community of Disciples

13 Underclothing for those who are sent on a journey is to be received from the wardrobe, which those who return are to wash and replace. 14 Their cowls and tunics should also be somewhat better than their usual wear: those leaving on a journey are to receive these from the wardrobe and those returning are to replace them. 15 For bedding a mat, a heavy and a light blanket, and a pillow suffice. 16 These beds are to be frequently inspected by the Abbot so that personal possessions are not found there; 17 and if anyone is found with something he has not received from the Abbot, he is to be subjected to the most severe discipline. 18 And so as to cut out this vice of personal ownership at the roots, the Abbot is to give out everything that is necessary: 19 that is, cowl, tunic, stockings, shoes, belt, knife, stylus, needle, handkerchief, and writing tablets; so that every excuse based on necessity is removed. 20 However the Abbot must always take into consideration this sentence from the Acts of the Apostles: They gave to each one according to his need (Acts 4:35). 21 Therefore the Abbot is also to take into consideration the weaknesses of those in need, not the ill-will of the envious: nevertheless, in all his decisions he is to ponder the retribution of God.

That They May Not Presume to Strike One Another at Will (RBen §70)

1 So as to avoid in the monastery every occasion of presumption, 2 we decree that no one has the right to excommunicate or strike any of his brothers, unless he has received power do to so by the Abbot. 3 For sinners are to be reproved before all, so that the rest may have fear (1 Tim 5:20). 4 Children, however, up to fifteen years