The Rule of Life

24 on behalf of the Roman Catholic Church, Christian leaders, the Order, the house, benefactors and the dead. 6. So that you will be mindful of your vocation, and avid for the rewards prepared for those who loyally struggle until death, each day renew your vows privately before the Blessed Sacrament. 7. Any of the novices after entrance – and as well be- fore profession – as well as those to be ordained, will dili- gently spend at least two weeks apart in their cell in private retreat. 19 The time will be spent in assiduous mental and voc- al prayer, in a general examination of conscience, and in con- sidering their calling. 8. Lest you also be disturbed by outsiders, the door of the house will always be kept locked. No one is allowed to bring in anyone from the outside, without the Superior’s permission, nor will it be allowed for any of the members to go out (under severe punishment) without the same permission of the Supe- rior. As often as anyone will be sent outside the house, he will always go out with a companion unless the most important rea- son would demand otherwise. When outside the house, he will direct his attention to the good edification of men by words and actions, neglecting nothing of his rule, praying intently while on his way. Having returned at the assigned time, he will can- didly tell the Superior all the things he has done. Once the signal for nightly rest has been given, no one will dare to wander through the corridors, in which (accord- ing to papal decree) a lamp should be lit for the whole night. 20 9. In order that you may have tranquility also in the house, no one should venture from his cell for any reason unless forced to do so by a legitimate necessity. Even less should he enter another’s cell, or admit anyone to his cell. 19 “In private retreat” is not in the Latin, but is implied. 20 Clement VIII, Nullus omnino 1599: “lamps will be lit in the middle of dormitories for the whole night.”