After he has applied compresses, the ointment of encouragement, the medicine of divine Scripture, and finally the cauterizing iron of excommunication and strokes of the rod, and if he then perceives that his earnest efforts are unavailing, let him apply an even better remedy: he and all the brothers should pray for him so that the Lord, who can do all things, may bring about the health of the sick brother. (RB 80.28.3-5)
Today, we have another glimpse at Benedict's "correctional code." He has just finished a rather extensive section on faults, discipline and excommunication. He summarizes that after all of these steps have been taken to correct faults (and they have failed) then the entire community should be called to prayer for the erring.
I would have thought that prayer might be the first line of defense against disobedience, sin, or errant behavior rather than the last. There does seem to be some evidence that prayer might have been invoked earlier in the process (the reference to Scripture as a corrective). Maybe the difference now is that it is the prayer of everyone in the community rather than just the Superior and the individual.
Benedict is very careful to preserve the dignity of the individual...so maybe Benedict is now calling for everyone to pray for the person. The prayers of the whole group being possibly more effective than the prayers of one. Also this would provide an opportunity for the other members of community to offer encouragement and support to the leader and to the individual (encouragement to change her life and continue growing despite the difficulties).
I have found that at the times that I feel the most separated from community, asking others to pray for me and my situation has helped me to feel less alone and isolated. The issues might still exist but I find more strength to be able to face the future when I have the support of other's prayers.
May I be that supporting influence for others.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
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