Gen Y

A monk by the name of Benedict wrote a book called, The Rule.  In its time, this book was the greatest of all monastic literature.

An abbot, the leader of the community of faith, was screened through a litmus test.  Yes, this is antiquated in its origin, but we can still use this test for leaders today:

• The abbot should be en example of integrity.
• The abbot should call together the council and weigh input while making decisions.
• The abbot gives account of his behavior to God.
• The abbot is learned in divine law.
• The abbot is sober and chaste.
• The abbot prefers mercy to justice.
• The abbot hates sin but loves the brothers.
• The abbot exercises prudence, even in his corrections.
• The abbot keeps his frailty and shortcomings ever before himself.
• The abbot cuts off vices in each brother as he determines, distributing guidance to each as they have specific need.
• The abbot works to be loved rather than feared.
• The abbot is not violent, anxious, obstinate, jealous or prone to suspicion.
• The abbot is prudent and considerate in all matters.

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