On the Reception of Guests
Apr. 4—Aug. 4—Dec. 4
Let all guests who arrive be received like Christ, for He is going to
say, “I came as a guest, and you received Me.” And to all let due honor
be shown, especially to the domestics of the faith and to pilgrims.
As soon as a guest is announced, therefore, let the Superior or the
brethren meet him with all charitable service. And first of all let them
pray together, and then exchange the kiss of peace. For the kiss of
peace should not be offered until after the prayers have been said, on
account of the devil’s deceptions.
In the salutation of all guests, whether arriving or departing, let all
humility be shown. Let the head be bowed or the whole body prostrated on
the ground in adoration of Christ, who indeed is received in their
persons.
After the guests have been received and taken to prayer, let the
Superior or someone appointed by him sit with them. Let the divine law
be read before the guest for his edification, and then let all kindness
be shown him. The Superior shall break his fast for the sake of a guest,
unless it happens to be a principal fast day which may not be violated.
The brethren, however, shall observe the customary fasts. Let the Abbot
give the guests water for their hands; and let both Abbot and community
wash the feet of all guests. After the washing of the feet let them say
this verse: “We have received Your mercy, O God, in the midst of Your
temple.”
In the reception of the poor and of pilgrims the greatest care and
solicitude should be shown, because it is especially in them that Christ
is received; for as far as the rich are concerned, the very fear which
they inspire wins respect for them.
Apr. 5—Aug. 5—Dec. 5
Let there be a separate kitchen for the Abbot and guests, that the
brethren may not be disturbed when guests, who are never lacking in a
monastery, arrive at irregular hours. Let two brethren capable of
filling the office well be appointed for a year to have charge of this
kitchen. Let them be given such help as they need, that they may serve
without murmuring. And on the other hand, when they have less to occupy
them, let them go out to whatever work is assigned them.
And not only in their case but in all the offices of the monastery let
this arrangement be observed, that when help is needed it be supplied,
and again when the workers are unoccupied they do whatever they are
bidden.
The guest house also shall be assigned to a brother whose soul is
possessed by the fear of God. Let there be a sufficient number of beds
made up in it; and let the house of God be managed by prudent men and in
a prudent manner.
On no account shall anyone who is not so ordered associate or converse
with guests. But if he should meet them or see them, let him greet them
humbly, as we have said, ask their blessing and pass on, saying that he
is not allowed to converse with a guest.