Chapter Sixty-Three
CHAPTER SIXTY-THREE
On the Order in the Monastery
LET ALL keep their order in the monastery as follows, as determined by the time of their conversion and the merit of their life, or as the Abbot will arrange. Let the Abbot not disturb the flock committed to him, nor should he dispose of anything unjustly by an arbitrary use of his powers; but let him always bear in mind that he will have to give an account to God of all his judgments and works. Therefore, the brethren should approach for the kiss of peace or for Communion, intone the psalms, or stand in choir according to that order which the Abbot has established, or which the brethren hold. In no place whatever should age determine the order or be a disadvantage, for Samuel and Daniel when mere boys judged the priests. (Cf. 1 Sam. 3; Dan. 13:44–62). Therefore, apart from those whom, as we have said, the Abbot from higher motives has advanced, or, for certain reasons, has demoted, let all the rest take their place according to the date of their conversion: thus, for instance, let him who came into the monastery at the second hour of the day, know that he is younger than he who came at the first hour, whatever his age or dignity may be. Children are to be kept under discipline at all times and by everyone. Let the younger honor their elders, therefore, and the older love the younger.
In addressing each other no one should call another by his simple name; but let the older call the younger, fraters—brothers; let the younger, however, call their elders, nonni—fathers, which communicates the reverence due to one’s father. As the Abbot is believed to hold the place of Christ, let him be called Lord and Abbot; this is not because he has made claim to the title, but out of honor and love for Christ. Let him think on this and so show himself to be worthy of such an honor.
Wherever, then, the brethren meet each other, let the younger ask a blessing from the elder; and when the elder pass by, let the younger rise and give him place to sit; and let the younger not presume to sit down with him unless his elder bid him to do so, that it may be done as it is written: “In honor preempting one another.” (Rom. 12:10).
Children and young men should take their proper places in the oratory and at table with all due discipline; moreover, outdoors, or wherever they may be, let them be kept under close observance and discipline until they reach the age of understanding.