given to the one he accused.38 Absent from this distinguished Tribunal of Love should be hatred, envy and excessive zeal. In fact, in telling another’s faults — unless there is a risk in delay — it is praiseworthy to follow the Gospel’s rule: remind him privately; [then] with a companion, admonish him; [and then,] unless he has come back to his senses finally, bring him to the Church (cf. Mt 18:17). But concerning the faults of outsiders, consider that nothing about it pertains to you — so much so that, unless you seem to be moved by good zeal, you should think that it is not your job to give an opinion about their faults. 4. The second time that the Local Superior will gather his members together is on Sundays, after evening meditation (or at another suitable time) for a spiritual conference in Latin (or in the vernacular) using simple, clear, passionate language in order to kindle their spirits to the practice of virtues, eliminating disordered affections and pursuing holiness. Or you may read a good book on this matter — namely, one that will exhort everyone quietly, yet efficaciously to loving God, following in Christ’s footsteps, observing religious discipline and persevering in holy penance. After the conference, some mortification or prayer or act of virtue will be assigned to be exercised by everyone during the coming week. If the occasion or necessity shall have demanded it, during the same gathering, the Superior with the senior [members] will be able to treat whatever concerns the welfare of the community. 5. Lastly, everyone will be gathered together — by the common signal of the bell — to help the soul of any member departing from this human life. They will commend him with pious admonition, prayers and humble tears to God’s goodness and mercy, striving with all fraternal strength that in this agony no one would be in danger concerning his own salvation. Indeed, the Superior will, with greatest charity, be certain to give the sick not only the bodily medicine they need at the right time but especially to give them the remedies for eternal life. These are: earnest confession of sins, 38 Literally, “will be punished with the law of retaliation,” i.e., the Old Testament “eye for an eye.” Cf. Dt 19:21. Appendix 302
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