Chapter Three
CHAPTER THREE
On Calling the Brethren for Counsel
WHENEVER weighty matters are to be transacted in the monastery, let the Abbot call together the whole community, and make known the matter which is to be considered. Having heard the brethren’s counsel, let him weigh the matter with himself and do what he thinks best. It is for this reason, however, we said that all should be called for council, because the Lord often reveals to the younger what is best. Let the brethren, however, give their counsel with humble deference, and let them not presume stubbornly to defend their own opinions, but let the matter depend rather on the Abbot’s will, so that all obey him in what he considers best. But as it is proper for disciples to obey their master, so also it is proper for the master to dispose all things with prudence and justice.
Therefore, let all follow the Rule as their guide in everything, and let no one rashly depart from it. Let no one in the monastery follow the will of his own heart, and let no one dare to dispute insolently with his Abbot, either inside or outside the monastery. If anyone dare to do so, let him be placed under the correction prescribed by the Rule. Let the Abbot himself, however, do everything in the fear of the Lord and with careful regard for the Rule, knowing that, without a shadow of a doubt, he will have to render to God, the most just Judge, a full account of all his decisions. If, however, matters of less importance, having to do with the welfare of the monastery, are to be treated of, let him take the counsel of the Seniors only, as it is written: “Do all things with counsel, and thou shalt not repent when thou hast done.” (Sir. 32:24).