The Rule of Life

32 are to be ordained under the due title 35 with the intention that a more abundant worship of God may flourish among you, and that the help of the dead – to which you have been called – may be more effective and frequent. So that he may appoint to this place and office those who would hold and exercise it worthily and well, the Superior will have a good knowledge of the qualities of all members of his Congregation. 4. It would be expedient for preserving the spirit of humility, if, as much as possible, the priests themselves would sweep out the church, clean the linens and vessels, and attend to the decoration and maintenance of the churches and their fur- niture. Nor should they pompously push themselves ahead of others whom they surpass in [the] dignity (of their office], even though the greatest esteem is owed them on account of the rev- erence due to Christ. In hearing confessions, let them join sweetness to prudence. They should be cautious in examining the consciences of penitents, especially the simple folk. They should be careful in assigning penances, careful about becom- ing friends with outsiders, and learned in resolving doubts and scruples. They should not be ignorant of those cases reserved to the Apostolic See, or the bishop or the Superior; knowing that absolution is not always to be given to all. These laws [this Rule] do not oblige under any pain of sin whatsoever, except for the obligations which come from the simple vows and the oath [of perseverance]. C HAPTER N INE O N H AVING M EETINGS 1. You will gather together, one or more [delegates] 36 for the following reason: First, every six years for choosing, or confirming, a Superior of the whole Congregation, his assistants, and the 35 No one can be ordained without being “attached“ either to a bishop or a religious community; those being ordained are being ordained “under the title” of a Congregation.