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  WHENEVER ANY IMPORTANT BUSINESS HAS TO BE DONE
  by St. Benedict of Nursia
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Summary: In important business, the Abbot seeks counsel from the
community, considers their advice, and makes a decision with prudence
and justice.

Topics: "Christian Community", "Spiritual Leadership"
Scripture References: Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Ephesians 5:21, Philippians 2:3

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and
guidance from the community before making important decisions. He
advises the Abbot to gather the whole community, listen to their advice
with humility, and then make a decision based on what is most
beneficial. St. Benedict highlights the value of humility, obedience,
and trusting in the Abbot's judgment for the welfare of all.

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CONTENT
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Whenever any important business has to be done

in the monastery,

let the Abbot call together the whole community

and state the matter to be acted upon.

Then, having heard the brethren's advice,

let him turn the matter over in his own mind

and do what he shall judge to be most expedient.

The reason we have said that all should be called for counsel

is that the Lord often reveals to the younger what is best.

Let the brethren give their advice

with all the deference required by humility,

and not presume stubbornly to defend their opinions;

but let the decision rather depend on the Abbot's judgment,

and all submit to whatever he shall decide for their welfare.

However, just as it is proper

for the disciples to obey their master,

so also it is his function

to dispose all things with prudence and justice.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-benedict-of-nursia/whenever-any-important-business-has-to-be-done/
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