Constitutional text - Chapter Tree - Our Community life

23. The local rules of life, established by the community,
deternùne the times of community prayer, corrrrnunity meetings
and the rhythm of work and leisure that will contribute
to the mental and physical health of each member. These
rules of life will be submitted to the Provincial Superior
and his Council for approval. In order to insure a certain
equality, the length of vacations will be determined by
Pro:vi11cial Statutes.
This norm combines elements from C.N. 84b, 24 and 25. In
the Norms as we have them now there was some confusion in
speaking of the Rule of Life in a number of places. Here
we have taken the Rule of Life and given it a specific
place and also have clearly indicated some of the things
it should include, adding in this number those things
concerning recreation and vacations.
24. Realizing that unity among brothers, which allows fora
diversity of expression and a plurality of involvements,
is a sign of the love asked of us by Christ and expected
of us by men, each member will strive to avoid anything
that would be a counter-witness to this unity so that the
conm1unity might live the Reconciliation which it wants to
bring to the world.
Basically it is the former C.N. 20, with the exception of
the addition of the phrase "which allows fora diversity
of expression and a plurality of involvements." The
addition was made in the hope of responding to the objection
of some that the idea of unity may be misinterpreted
as meaning total conformity. Our unity is
founded on our commitment to the same fundamental values,
goals and orientations. But within that unity there is
great room for diversity. When there is clarity and
security concerning the essentials, then there is usually
a great acceptance of diversity and pluriformity and
a recognition that the differences are actually part of
the richness of corrnnunity life.
25. While remaining firm on the essentials of our commitment,
each member will act towards his brothers with understanding
and respect for their personal convictions. Should a
conflict arise, those involved will try to settle it themselves
with true charity.
Formerly C.N. 21 with a few additions. We have added the
introductory phrase "While remaining firm on the essentials
of our commitment" because it should be clear that
understanding and respect for the personal opinions and
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