On the Porters of the Monastery
Apr. 24—Aug. 24—Dec. 24
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.