Apr. 24—Aug. 24—Dec. 24
Project Gutenberg EPUB3 edition
Benedict, Saint, Abbot of Monte Cassino and Doyle, Leonard J. (Leonard Joseph)
At the gate of the monastery let there be placed a wise old man, who knows how to receive and to give a message, and whose maturity will prevent him from straying about. This porter should have a room near the gate, so that those who come may always find someone at hand to attend to their business. And as soon as anyone knocks or a poor man hails him, let him answer “Thanks be to God” or “A blessing!” Then let him attend to them promptly, with all the meekness inspired by the fear of God and with the warmth of charity.
Should the porter need help, let him have one of the younger brethren.
If it can be done, the monastery should be so established that all the necessary things, such as water, mill, garden and various workshops, may be within the enclosure, so that there is no necessity for the monks to go about outside of it, since that is not at all profitable for their souls.
We desire that this Rule be read often in the community, so that none of the brethren may excuse himself on the ground of ignorance.