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  IF ANY ORDAINED PRIEST
  by St. Benedict of Nursia
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Summary: An ordained priest seeking to join the monastery must observe
the whole discipline of the Rule and not expect special treatment.

Topics: "Monastic Life", "Clerical Discipline"
Scripture References: Matthew 26:50, Philippians 2:3, James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:5

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of discernment and
commitment for ordained priests seeking to join the monastery. He
advises that permission should not be granted too readily, and those
persistent in their request must be willing to observe the entire
discipline of the Rule without any exceptions. While some privileges may
be granted, such as standing next to the Abbot and celebrating Mass, it
is crucial for the priest to remember their humility and submission to
the Rule. Additionally, clerics desiring to join must also promise to
adhere to the Rule and stability, being placed in a middle rank within
the monastery.

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CONTENT
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If any ordained priest

should ask to be received into the monastery,

permission shall not be granted too readily.

But if he is quite persistent in his request,

let him know

that he will have to observe the whole discipline of the Rule

and that nothing will be relaxed in his favor,

that it may be as it is written:

"Friend, for what have you come (Matt. 26:50)?"

It shall be granted him, however, to stand next after the Abbot

and to give blessings and to celebrate Mass,

but only by order of the Abbot.

Without such order let him not make any exceptions for himself,

knowing that he is subject to the discipline of the Rule;

but rather let him give an example of humility to all.

If there happens to be question of an appointment

or of some business in the monastery,

let him expect the rank due him

according to the date of his entrance into the monastery,

and not the place granted him

out of reverence for the priesthood.

If any clerics, moved by the same desire,

should wish to join the monastery,

let them be placed in a middle rank.

But they too are to be admitted only if they promise

observance of the Rule and stability.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-benedict-of-nursia/if-any-ordained-priest/
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