We’re Changing!

Daily Reading from the Rule of St Benedict

CHAPTER 2: WHAT AN ABBOT SHOULD BE LIKE continued
NO distinction of persons should be made by him in the monastery, unless it be for one whom he has found better in good works or obedience. A free-born man is not to be put above one who enters from slavery, unless there is some other good reason for doing so. If however the abbot thinks it right in justice to do so, he may alter anyone’s order; otherwise let them keep their own proper places, because whether slave or free we are all one in Christ, and we all serve alike in the ranks under the one Lord, for God shows no partiality; the only difference he makes between us in this regard is if we are found better than others in good works and humility. Therefore let the abbot have an equal love for all, and let discipline be impartial for all according to their deserts.