Ad Honorem Immaculatae Conceptionis Mariae Oblatio

120 religious community in the Church carries out its own specific mission, defined by its charism, but the manner in which this mission is fulfilled is defined by the Institute’s by-laws, which regulate the manner of the Con- gregation’s functioning, the way of governance, etc. 30 The by-laws are nor- mative factors that allow the community as a whole, as well as its individual members, to seek and fulfill the will of God while building up the Church. The absence of by-laws would lead to everyone’s attempt to act “on their own” without regard to others, which is contrary to the essence of religious life. Therefore, the idea of the significance of the by-laws is still important today, but with the proviso that the function of the by-laws is auxiliary to the mission and charism of the community. On the one hand, articles in the Marian by-laws that treat the value of the law are particularly important: The confreres are to strive to conform their entire life to the Gos- pel as expressed in the laws of the Congregation. They should have a high regard for these laws as means to attain holiness that are well -suited to their vocation; they should become familiar with them and observe them faithfully. Let them remember that both the personal progress of each confrere and the prosperity of the entire Congrega- tion depend above all on this fidelity. 31 Therefore, the legislators’ implication is clear: the norms of the Congre- gation are the actualization of the Gospel guidelines for the confreres today and have their worth insofar as they lead to the development of both the individual confreres and the entire community. On the other hand, article 304 of the Constitutions is very important, which may seem incomprehensible at first glance, but which shows the auxiliary and subordinate function of the by-laws: The Constitutions, as well as the Directory, do not of themselves ob- lige under sin; however, one cannot in any way be free from sin who transgresses them in matters pertaining to the precepts of God and the Church or to the vows, or with scandal to others, or out of con- tempt. 32 30 Cf. Instruction “Fraternal Live in the Community,” op. cit., 49. 31 CM, 303. 32 CM, 304.