Donated To The Library by
CENTER FOR THE STUDY
OF RELIGIOUS LIFE
February, 1999
Sisters of St. Joseph
Province Archives Office
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St. Louis, MO 63111
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Theological Union
LIBRARY
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MANUAL OF
DECREES, CUSTOMS
AND OBSERVANCES
FOR THE USE OF THE
CONGREGATION
OF THE
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
OF CARONDELET
B. HERDER
ST. LOUIS, MO.
1917
:SUH1L OB STAT
Sti. Ludovici, die 8 Junii, 1911
F G. Holwech,
Censor Lihrorum
IMPRIMATUR
Sti. Ludovicif die 8 Junii, 1911
t^ Joannes J Glennon,
Archiepiscopus
8ti. Ludovici
Printed in U, S. A.
VAIL-BALLOU COMPANY
BINONAMTON AND NEW YORK
FOREWORD
With the Eevised Manual of Customs it
seems well to send a few words upon the need
of the new book^ the obligation of a careful
study of its pages and the utility to be de-
rived from the faithful carrying out of its
suggestions and instruction. The Book of
Customs is not the Eule any more than the
Eule is the Vows which bind us. The Con-
stitutions teach us how to fulfill the re-
quirements of our Vows in the spirit of our
Institute and the Customs enter into the
details which secure uniformity and practi-
cality. The Vows never change; the Rules
not unfrequently have paragraphs^, even
chapters, either rescinded or added by the
authority of Holy Mother Church directly
or at the request of a General Chapter; the
Customs ought and do vary with the needs
of the times, the changes brought about by
the growth of our work and the progress of
the world. That several changes have been
made in recent years and that we have had
FOREWORD
no revision of the Book of Customs since
1888 make the need of this new one evident.
As to the obligation of every one making
herself familiar with every line of the little
Manual it is only necessary to reflect upon
the impossibility of loving what we do not
know and the certainty that we shall neither
practice well nor teach with any degree of
success what we neither know nor love. Let
us know our customs^ practice them, and love
them as the strong outer fortifications which
will hinder the entrance of an enemy from
without, such as would be misinterpretation
or insubordination, and at the same time
guard against the giving into unnecessary
contact with the world the self we have
pledged to serve God according to the Insti-
tute of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Caronde-
let.
Mother House,
Feast of St. Joseph, 1917.
DAILY OBSERVANCES
We rise at the hour indicated in our holy
Eule, except those who, from illness or weak-
ness of constitution, are allowed a longer time
for rest.
Whilst dressing we say the prayers indi-
cated in the Spiritual Directory, kissing with
respect the Habit, Veil and Cincture ; before
leaving the dormitory we kiss the floor.
This practice is also observed on entering
and leaving the chapel, at the time of any
exercise. If found inconvenient to kiss the
floor, the kneeling bench may be kissed in-
stead.
Where the Sisters have to attend early
Mass or receive Communion in the parish
churchy they may finish their vocal prayers
before reading the points of the meditation,
which may be concluded in the church.
At the conclusion of any Community exer-
cise in the chapel, we rise promptly (the
j^oungest first), make a genuflection, two by
two, having the sleeves of the habit drawn
over the hands, and leave the chapel, each
one to attend to her respective duties.
The Sisters who are not in class strive to
O MANUAL OF THE
be faithful to the hourly prayer, as found in
the Formulary, every time the clock strikes.
At 9 A. M. they recite after the hourly prayer,
the Prayer and Litany of the Sacred Heart,
adding the ^"^Veni Creator^^ for Superiors.
They pay especial attention to the subject
of their particular examen. If unable to
make it at the time indicated by the Eule, it
is better to anticipate than to postpone the
same.
At table the Sisters strive to be very atten-
tive to one another, helping those near them
to whatever they may require without waiting
to be asked to do so.
No one rises to leave the table during
meals, except from some unavoidable neces-
sity. We carefully refrain from making un-
necessary noise with knives, plates, spoons,
etc., or doing anything that might prevent
the reading from being heard.
The Sisters will direct their attention to
offer the ^^De Profundis,^^ which is said di-
rectly after grace at meals, for the deceased
benefactors of the Community.
Sisters coming late for the Blessing at
table ask to say Grace, which they do kneel-
ing— afterward kissing the floor.
Immediately after the noon and evening
meals, all the Sisters not actually engaged in
duties of obedience or charity go to the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 7
chapel to make a visit to the Blessed Sacra-
ment^ which may extend from five to seven
minutes.
The visit over^ we repair at once to the
place appointed for recreation^ during which
our conversation should always be of a cheer-
ful and edifying nature^ such as may conduce
to refresh both body and soul.
No Sister absents herself from the Com-
munity recreation without express permis-
sion.
On entering the recreation room each Sister
should endeavor to keep alive an ancient;,
beautiful custom of the Congregation^, by
saluting those assembled with the words:
"Praise be to Jesus V to which all answer :
"Amen.^^
This same custom we also endeavor to ob-
serve during the day, when meeting in the
corridors or upon entering any room, except
during the hours of meditation.
When the clock strikes during the hour of
recreation, it is customary for the Superior,
or in case of her absence, for the senior Sister
present^ to remind the assembly of the holy
presence of God, to which all reverently reply :
"We adore His Divine Majesty.^^
The signal for prayer or for any Commu-
nity exercise in the chapel is generally given
five minutes in advance; in large Communi-
8 MANUAL OF THE
ties^ such as the Mother House^ ten minutes
are given before night prayers.
During the prayers and spiritual lecture
after the noon recreation^ we may busy our-
selves with some work which will not distract
our attention from them. We try to provide
ourselves before hand with work, so as not to
disturb anyone during this exercise.
Should we come in late, it is better to let
our hands remain unoccupied, than to hinder,
in ourselves or in others, the good which the
spiritual reading is expected to produce.
Sisters who are prevented from being pres-
ent at lecture, will ask permission to read it
as soon as convenient thereafter.
During the great silence which our Consti-
tutions prescribe from half -past one till half-
past two, and from night prayers till after
next morning's meditation, we are careful to
refrain from saying anything not absolutely
necessary, and when obliged to speak, to do
so in as few words as possible, and in a low
tone of voice.
We are likewise careful that in closing
doors and windows, moving chairs or tables,
or any other object, we do not make unneces-
sary noise, and thereby disturb the peace and
recollection of the house of God, or hinder in
their interior attention to God, souls conse-
crated to Him. /
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH ^
During the day^ outside of recreation hours,
we observe the usual silence by refraining
from useless and unnecessary conversation.
When by charity or necessity obliged to speak,
we do so in a low tone of voice, and in a
gentle, obliging and edifying manner.
We assemble at the close of the evening
recreation in the Community room to listen,
while standing, to the reading of a chapter
of our Constitutions or Spiritual Directory.
After this permissions are asked and arrange-
ments made about the occupations of the fol-
lowing day, so as to avoid the necessity of
disturbing the Superior during the recreation
or at other inconvenient times.
All then give their attention to study and
other occupations, as may be directed by obe-
dience.
We should ever remember that time is not
our own, but belongs to God and the Insti-
tute; hence, we cannot dispose of it as we
wish, but should employ it solely as directed
by obedience.
After night prayers, all are careful to retire
at the appointed time — twenty-five minutes
after the night prayer is finished — no one re-
maining up longer except those obliged by
some duty or who have a s^eneral or particular
permission to do so.
10 MANUAL OF THE
WEEKLY OBSERVANCES
When we attend Mass or Vespers in the
parish churchy we endeavor to edify the faith-
ful by our modesty^ recollection and uniform
manner of acting in conformity with the cere-
monies of the Church.
On confession days it is customary for the
Sisters to follow a certain order in going to
confession^ as the circumstances of the place
and the number of the Sisters^ as well as
their duties on such days^ may have suggested
to the Superior to appoint.
Every Thursday, we are accustomed to say
the Beads immediately after lecture at noon
for our Local Superior.
Every Friday, at the time appointed, we
assemble for the Chapter of Faults, the due
fulfillment of which duty we ought to con-
sider as one of the great blessings of the
religious life.
Our Superiors should take particular care
to correct their Sisters with the greatest mild-
ness, religious kindness and charity.
To encourage the Sisters to assist at this
exercise with more readiness a^id fervor, they
are reminded that the Sovereign Pontiff Paul
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH H
V. granted an indulgence of three years and
as many quarantines to those religious who,
with a contrite heart, shall accuse themselves
in Chapter, making at the same time a spirit-
ual Communion and practicing some act of
virtue.
The Chapter of Faults is usually omitted
during the twelve days of Christmas, the
octaves of Easter and Pentecost, some occa-
sional Fridays during the midsummer vaca-
tion according to circumstances ; also when a
first-class festival falls on Friday.
The Chapter may also be dispensed with
on Fridays that occur within any of the cus-
tomary Triduums, to give place to the ex-
traordinary meditation which is generally
made in the evening.
On Saturday^ after the prayers and lecture
at noon, the customary Beads for our de-
ceased Sisters are said.
In all Communities where the Sisters have
to attend Mass and other services in the
parish church on Sundays, and hence cannot
recite the entire Office of the B. V. in their
chapel, they recite at least. Matins and Lauds
at the close of the recreation on Saturday
evening.
On the same day there is a general permis-
sion to wash and take a bath, for which extra
time may be allowed.
12 MANUAL OF THE
Sisters who are indisposed ask for a dis-
pensation from taking the discipline; they
may at the same time procure permission to
perform this work of penance some other
time.
MONTHLY OBSERVANCES
On the first day of each months the time of
the morning's meditation is extended seven
minutes and a half^, in order to obtain the
grace of spending the month in a holy man-
ner.
On the first day of the months permissions
are asked^, at whatever hour the Superior
judges most convenient. These permissions
are only made use of when there is no oppor-
tunity to ask the Superior^ and regard small
articles only^ such as to lend^ borrow and
change little articles of wearing apparel, to
keep for one's own use small articles found
in the house, as for instance: pins^ needles,
pieces of tapes, etc. *
On the first Sunday of the month, the
Beads are said and Holy Communion ofl^ered
for all the Superiors of the Congregation.
On the same day, in place of the usual con-
ference, the Sisters assemble for admonition,
commonly called Defi. /
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 13
It is held in the following manner :
The youngest Sister commences by ac-
knowledging how many times she omitted the
Practice of the Defi, which^ as explained in
the Spiritual Directory, is: To unite our
hearts, at least three times a day, namely, at
the elevation at Mass, at noon and at evening,
making the offering and prayer as indicated
in the Spiritual Directory.
She then mentions the virtue she had pro-
posed to practice, or the fault she had labored
to correct in herself since the last admonition,
and the number of times in the day, week or
month, that she failed in her resolution. She
then chooses another or the same virtue to
practice the ensuing month.
The Sisters are obliged by charity, which is
the object of the admonition, to inform each
other if they have observed any violation of
the virtue proposed for the general practice
of the Community.
The virtue is proposed by the Superior for
the purpose of correcting any fault that may
be known to be general, such as against
charity, silence, religious modesty, etc.
We say the Veni Creator for those who
have had the charity to admonish us.
It is customary for the Sister whose turn
it is to say prayers, to remind the Community
14 MANUAL OF THE
of the practice of the Deji after one and five
o'clock prayers.
Tlie custom of keeping a list of the monthly
patrons^ arranged in the form of a litany, and
recited occasionally during life, but particu-
larly at the hour of death, is practiced by each
Sister, who attends devoutly at the drawing
of the monthly Saints. Each Sister, as far
as possible, draws her own ticket.
The custom of asking permission for ex-
terior mortification is practiced one or twice
a month in large Communities, and more
frequently in small ones.
The practice of making a monthly review
of confessions, as prescribed by the Consti-
tutions at the close of the month, is never
omitted, if the confessor opposes no obstacle.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
15
ANNUAL OBSERVANCES
To prepare ourselves well for beginning of
the year^ we carefully and attentively read the
various devout practices indicated in Chapter
1^ Part IV^ of our Spiritual Directory, and
endeavor to put in practice what is therein -
indicated.
At the close of the year, the Superior-
General is accustomed to send to each house
of the Congregation a Circular, containing
the names of the Sisters who died during the
year, with an edifying sketch of their lives
and virtues. She also employs this opportu-
nity to make known to the Sisters the name
of their yearly ^Patron,, and such other items
as circumstances may require.
We prepare ourselves for the celebration of
the feasts of the Visitation and Immaculate
Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as
well as for the feast of St, Joseph, by three
days of recollection, as prescribed in our
Constitutions.
In order that the Triduum of preparation
may produce all the fruit it is calculated to
bring forth in fervent souls, the Superior of
each house, or a Sister appointed by her, will^
16 MANUAL OF THE
on the Sunday previous, remind the Commu-
nity of its approach, by placing a card or
paper in either the Community room, Refec-
tory, or some conspicuous place, bearing the
following notice :
Tribuum, Preparatory to the Feast of
THE Immaculate Conception.
Let us offer this Triduum to obtain,
through Mary Immaculate, great purity of
heart and of intention, and a great fidelity tc
the graces which shall be granted us for out
own sanctification and that of our neighbor.
We shall, therefore, give attention to the
following points :
1. Carefully avoid all useless and unneces-
sary words, and when by duty obliged to
speak, do so briefly and in a low tone of voice.
2. Abstain from all work that is calculated
to dissipate the mind, unless imposed by obe-
dience or charity. Avoid, likewise, all un-
necessary going abroad or useless intercourse
with seculars.
3. The Sisters are also strongly recom-
mended to give some time each day to private
spiritual reading.
4. Make the prescribed extra meditations
very exactly and devoutly, and endeavor dur-
ing these three days to honor and imitate the
fervor of our Immaculdte Mother, imploring
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 17
through her powerful intercession, a share in
her matchless purity, humility and ardent
love of God, capable of attracting the regard
of our Heavenly Spouse.
The Triduum in Honor of Our Holy
Father St. Joseph
is, conformably to the intention specified in
our Eule, to be offered to obtain the continu-
ance of St. Joseph^s protection on our dear
Congregation and the spiritual progress of its
members.
We shall, therefore, faithfully attend to the
following points :
1. Avoid with great care all unnecessary
conversation; and should duty or charity
oblige us to speak, do so in as few words as
possible and in a low tone of voice.
2. Abstain from occupations capable of
disturbing our interior peace and quiet of
soul. Should such be imposed upon us by
obedience, to ask St. Joseph to assist us to
perform them with his holy dispositions and
according to his spirit.
3. Devote, if possible, some time each day
to private spiritual reading calculated to
awaken and nourish within us an interior
spirit.
4. Make the extra meditations very exactly
and devoutly, and endeavor during these three
18 MANUAL OF THE
da)^s of recollection to be renewed in the spirit
of the interior life of which St. Joseph is so
perfect a models and to which we are espe-
cially bound to tend, in virtue of our holy
vocation as Daughters of this glorious Patri-
arch.
Triduum Preceding the Feast of the
Visitation of the Blessed
Virgin Mary
Conformably to the intentions of our holj
Eule, we shall offer this Triduum that,
through the intercession of the most Blessed
Virgin, our Saviour Jesus may visit and sanc-
tify us as He visited and sanctified St. John
Baptist in the womb of his mother Elizabeth,
and that He may animate us with the same
spirit of zeal and charity with which His
Blessed Mother was animated in the VisiU
ation.
This recollection being also intended as a
preparation for the renewal of our vows, we
endeavor to dispose ourselves for the same by
faithfully observing during these three days :
1. Strict silence, by carefully refraining
from all idle and useless words, and when by
necessity obliged to speak, to do so briefly
and religiously.
2. We endeavor to arrange our occupations
beforehand, so that during the recollection we
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
19
may not be obliged to go abroad nor under-
take any duty involving too much care, which
consequently might dissipate the mind.
3. We make the prescribed meditations on
the Holy Vows very exactly and spend some
little time each day in private spiritual read-
ing, calculated to help to renew within us the
true spirit of our holy profession in the re-
ligious life to which God, in his infinite
mercy, has been pleased to call us.
During the Triduums, such books are read
at table as are calculated to excite to new
fervor.
On Palm Sunday the following Notice is
put in some conspicuous place^ where all the
Sisters may be able to see and read the same :
Wherever practicable we attend the entire
morning services of Holy Week. A half-
hour of the usual recreation will be dispensed
with from Monday until Wednesday. Rec-
reation to be taken from 12 :30 to 1 :00
and from 7 :00 to 7 :30. From Holy Thurs-
day until Holy Saturday at noon, we forego
the entire recreation that, conformably to the
intention of our Holy Eule, we may apply
ourselves with greater affection and sorrow
to meditate upon the sufferings of our Lord.
The bell is not rung from the Gloria of the
Mass on Holy Thursday until the Gloria of
the Mass on Holy Saturday.
20 MANUAL OF THE
On Good Friday, the Way of the Cross is
made in common^ a little before three o^clock,
after wliich the history of the Passion, ac-
cording to St. John^ may be read.
On Good Friday and Holy Saturday the
discipline is taken and the usual Friday's
Chapter omitted.
On the eve of all first-class festivals^ pre-
ceded by a fast, the evening recreation is
omitted.
The pious custom of assembling in the
chapel on the last evening of the year and
there reciting the Miserere, in atonement for
the faults committed; and of chanting, or at
least reciting^ the Te Deum, in thanksgiving
for the graces received, is a most laudable
practice, and strongly recommended.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 21
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MANUAL OF THE
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SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH ^ 23
When we communicate on the following
Feasts we may do so for the intentions here
specified:
Communion on the Feasts of
Espousals of the B. V. and St. Joseph —
Union and concord.
St. Francis de Sales — Spiritual wants of
our Congregation.
St. Thomas Aquinas, universal patron of
schools and scholars — All the children
under our care.
St. Catherine of Sienna, patroness of re-
ligious in the active life — Great purity
of intention.
St. Claude — To be protected against fire.
SS. Peter and Paul — Our Holy Father the
Pope.
St. Vincent de Paul — The poor and the
orphans.
St. Anna, Mother of the B. V. M.— To
obtain a true devotion to Mary.
St. Ignatius Loyola — To obtain the spirit
of obedience.
Holy Guardian Angels — ^To obtain protec-
tion against evil spirits.
St. Michael, Archangel — To obtain a true
spirit of humility.
St. Francis of Assisum — To obtain a true
spirit of poverty.
24 MANUAL OF THE
St. Teresa V. — To obtain a true spirit of
prayer.
St. Elizabeth of Hungary — To obtain a
true spirit of simplicity.
All Saints — To obtain detachment from
earthly things.
All Souls — The repose of all the faithful
departed.
St. Francis Xavier — Propagation of the
faith.
St. Stephen, Proto-Martyr — To obtain the
gift of fortitude.
St. John the Evangelist — To obtain the
spirit of meekness.
Holy Innocents — For our Novices, an in-
crease in numbers and virtue.
On days of Eeception and Profession —
For the newly received and professed.
The day of Interment of any Sister^ — For
the repose of her soul.
The general intentions above indicated do
not exclude the private intentions of indi-
vidual Sisters, which may be added to them.
We should ever be mindful to pray fer-
vently in our Holy Communions for the
exaltation of our Holy Mother Church, for
our Holy Father the Pope, for Cardinals,
Bishops, Spiritual Directors and Pastors of
souls ; but, chiefly for our religious Superiors,
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 25
who are charged with grave responsibilities
and on whom the welfare of our dear Con-
gregation SO much depends.
DAYS OF EXPOSITION OF
THE MOST BLESSED
SACRAMENT
First Friday of the month — Wherever practi-
cable.
Third Sunday of the month — At the Mother
and Provincial Houses.
The three days of the Carnival (forty hours)
— At the M. House.
Feast of , Corpus Christi — ^Wherever practi-
cable.
Every day during the octave— From begin-
ning to the end of Mass wherever practi-
cable.
Feast of the Sacred Heart — All day wherever
practicable.
Indulgences that may be gained after
Holy Communion. Plenary once a month.
1 Angelus 300 days
2 Veni Creator 100 days
26 MANUAL OF THE
3 De Profundis 100 days
4 Meditation Plenary
5 Offering of the Hour
of Guard 7 years and 7
quarantines
6 Three Hail Mary's and
Salve Eegina 100 days
7 My Lord and My God 100 days
8 Jesus Mary and Joseph 7 years and
7 times 40 days
9 Holy Mass Plenary
10 Memorare of the
Blessed Virgin 300 days
11 Salve Eegina — Sub
Tuum 100 days
12 Prayer for the Agoniz-
ing 100 days
13 Sanctus thrice 100 days
14 0 sweetest Heart of
Jesus I implore^ etc. 300 days
15 Gloria Patri thrice 100 days
16 Sweet Heart of Mary
be my Salvation 300 days
17 0 Sacrament Most Holy
etc. 100 days
18 Acts of Paith^ Hope
and Charity 7 years
19 Anima Christi 7 years
20 Beads of the Blessed
Virgin
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
27
,21
Acts of Praise
2 years
22
Angel of God
100 days
23
Eternal Father
3 years
24
Deliver ns we
Thee 0 Lord
beseech
BENEDICTION DAYS
All Sundays and festivals of obligation dur-
ing the year.
All feasts of our Lord^ of the Blessed Virgin^
of St. Joseph and of the Apostles.
First Wednesday of every month, in honor of
St. Joseph, wherever permitted by the
Bishop.
First Friday of every month, and every day
during the octave of Corpus Christi.
January 29^ Feast of St. Francis de Sales.
March 17, Feast of St. Patrick, — every day
during the Triduum of St. Joseph.
March — Every Wednesday.
April 25, St. Mark, Evangelist.
May — every day.
June — Every Friday, if permitted by the
Bishop.
July — Every day of the Triduum preceding
the feast of the Visitation.
28 MANUAL OF THE
August 2 — ^Peast of Portiuncula.
September 29 — Feast of St. Michael, Arch-
angel.
October — Every day.
November 13 — Feast of St. Stanislaus
Kostka (at Novitiate Houses).
November 19 — Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hun-
gary.
December 3 — Feast of St. Francis Xavier.
December 26 — Feast of St. Stephen.
December 28 — ^Feast of Holy Innocents.
Every evening during a general retreat, and
on the day of its close.
Days of reception and profession.
Feast of the Superior.
THE FOLLOWING
NOVENAS
May be made during the year, beginning with
the ecclesiastical year.
November 29 — Feast of the Immaculate Con-
ception.
December 16— Feast of Christmas.
January 20 — Feast of St. Francis de Sales.
January 24 — Feast of the Purification of the
B. V. M.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 29
March 10— Feast of our Holy Father St.
Joseph.
March 16-^Feast of Annunciation of our
Lady,
April 17 — Feast of our Lady of Good Coun-
sel. '
Friday after Ascension Day — To the Holy
Ghost.
Tuesday after Whit-Sunday — Corpus Christi.
Eve of Corpus Christi — Feast of the Sacred
Heart.
June 20— SS. Peter and Paul.
June 23 — Feast of the Visitation of the
B. V. M.
August 6 — Feast of the Assumption of our
Lady.
August 30 — Feast of the Nativity of our
Lady.
September 20 — Feast of St. Michael, Arch-
angel.
Nine days preceding the Third Sunday — Our
Lady of Sorrows.
October 6 — Feast of St. Teresa, special Pa-
troness of our Congregation.
October 6 — Feast of All Saints.
November 12 — Feast of the Presentation of
our Blessed Lady.
We may also practice some devout exer-
cises during the various months of the year,
as follows:
30
MANUAL OF THE
MONTH
WE HONOR
Jan.
The Infant Jesus
Feb.
Suffering life of
Jesus
]\Iar.
Our Holy Father
St. Joseph
Apr.
Our risen Lord
and Savior
May
Our Blessed
Mother
June
The Sacred Heart
of our Lord
July
The Precious
Blood
Aug.
Immaculate
Heart of Mary
Sept.
Sorrows of Mary
Oct.
Queen of the
Holy Rosary
and H. Angels
Nov.
The Holy Souls
Dec.
The Mystery of
the Incarnation
ASK FOB THE GRACE
OR VIRTUE
Religious simplicity
Love of the cross
Spirit of the interior
life
Loving devotedness to
our Mother Church
That she may shield
us against the spirit
of the world
To obtain humility
and charity
To obtain a spirit of
thanksgiving
The conversion of
souls dear to Mary
Comfort for the sick
and afflicted, espe-
cially for those dear
to us
Protection against
evil spirits
To endeavor to gain
many indulgences
for them
The spirit and love of
poverty and detach-
ment
On all Fridays during Lent, our Holy
"Mother the Church presents to the grateful
love and veneration of her children, the vari-
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 31
ous instruments that figured in the Passion
of our Lord.
Thus^ we honor and venerate on the
Friday after Ash Wednesday ;, the Crown of
Thorns.
Friday after the 1st Sunday in Lent, the
Lance and the Nails.
Friday after the 2nd Sunday in Lent, the
Veil of St. Veronica.
Friday after the 3rd Sunday in Lent, the Five
Wounds of our Lord.
Friday after the 4th Sunday in Lent, the Pre-
cious Blood.
Friday after the 5th Sunday in Lent, we
honor the Sorrows of Mary.
Good Friday, we honor Jesus Christ Cruci-
fied and venerate the Cross.
As the Mother House possesses some Eelics
relating to the Sacred Passion of our Lord,
namely, several particles of the True Cross,
one of the Crown of Thorns, the Cords and
Bonds, the Veil of St. Veronica, Pillar of
Flagellation, the Crypt of the Agony of our
Lord, we ought to strive to show our grateful
appreciation of such priceless treasures by re-
doubling our love and gratitude to our Lord,
who has redeemed us at so great a price, and
who desires that we should often be mindful
of what he has endured for us in His Sacred
Passion.
32 MANUAL OF THE
DAYS OF GENERAL
RECREATION
For the sake of greater uniformity, the
third General Chapter decreed that our recre-
ation days be reduced to the following:
New Year's Day.
Feast of the Epiphany.
Feast of St. Joseph.
Easter Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Patronage of St. Joseph.
Ascension Day.
Whit-Sunday and Monday.
Anniversary of the Approbation of our
Holy Eule, May 16th.
Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Vir-
gin Mary.
Feast of the Assumption.
Feast of St. Teresa.
Feast of All Saints.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception of
our Lady.
Christmas and the three days following.
Feasts of the Patron Saints of Eeverend
Mother and Mother Assistant^ the Mother
Provincial and her Assistant and of Local
Superiors in their own houses.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 33
An occasional day during the summer vaca-
tion^ at the discretion of the Superior.
Eecreation may also be given at dinner on
the feast of St. Patrick.
It may be prolonged for half an hour in the
evening on such feasts as
The Annunciation of our Lady.
The Nativity of our Lady.
The Purification of our Lady.
The Presentation of our Lady.
SS. Peter and Paul.
St. Francis de Sales.
Also every day during the midsummer va-
cation.
Eecreation may be allowed occasionally
during dinner^ or supper at the discretion of
the Superior of each Province, with whom
each local Superior shall arrange annually.
Custom also sanctions recreation on days
of Eeception and Profession, and in Novi-
tiate Houses, on the feast of the Patron Saint
of the Mistress. On the feast of St. Stanis-
laus, the Novices may be allowed to have rec-
reation in the Novitiate.
To grant extra recreation beyond that per-
mitted by the Eule and lawfully established
custom, ought to be considered by Superiors
as a responsible violation of duty, capable of
weakening religious discipline and introduc-
ing disorder into the Community.
34 MANUAL OF THE
ADMINISTRATION OF THE
LAST SACRAMENTS
When the last Sacraments are adminis-
tered, the Infirmarian prepares the Altar in
the Infirmary.
She places on it a crucifix, two ivax can-
dles, holy water, a corporal, a purifying glass,
a Ritual and Communion cloth.
If Extreme Unction is to be administered,
she also leaves a purple stole, a small piece of
bread to purify the priest's fingers, and some
hot water to wash them ; also, some little balls
of cotton to wipe oif the Holy Oil and a paste-
board or paper case to receive them, that all
may be burned and the ashes thrown in the
Sacrarium.
The priest wears a surplice, white stole
and humeral veil, when he carries the Blessed
Sacrament.
When the Priest enters the Infirmary, he
says : Pax huic Domui, to which the Sacris-
tan answers : Et omnibus habitantihus in
ea.
The same words are repeated each time he
visits the sick.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 35
He then sprinkles holy water, saying:
Asperges me, etc.
V. Adjutorium nostrum in nomine Dom-
ini.
R. Qui fecit coelum et terram.
V. Domine exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor mens ad et veniat.
V. Dominus vobiscum.
E. Et cum spiritu tuo.
Oremus. Exaudi nos Domine, etc.
The Confiteor is then said, and the sick
Sister receives Holy Communion.
After Extreme Unction is administered
the following is said :
V. Kyrie eleison.
E. Christe eleison.
V. Kyrie eleison.
Pater noster (secreto).
V. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
E. Sed libera nos a malo.
V. Salvam fac ancillam tuam.
E. Deus mens, sperantem in te.
V. Mitte ei, Domine, auxilium de Sancto.
E. Et de Sion tuere eam.
V. Esto ei, Domine, turris fortitudinis.
E. A facie inimici.
V. Mhil proficiat inimicus in ea.
E.\ Et filius iniquitatis non apponat nocere
ei. \
V, ' Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
36 MANUAL OF THE
E. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
V. Dominus vobiscum.
E. Et cum spiritu tuo.
Oremus. Domine^ Deus^, etc.
It is only when the Holy Viaticum is given
for the first time during an illness that the
attendance of the Community is usual. In
all other cases, when the Most Holy Sacra-
ment is brought to the Infirmary, it is suf-
ficient that a few Sisters accompany it, going
before the Priest, the two nearest bearing
lights and the Sacristan tinkling a little bell.
The sick Sister is reminded to gain the
plenary indulgence granted to all religious at
the hour of death by our Holy Father, Pope
Paul v., in a Bull of the 25th of May, 1606.
The words of the said Bull are :
"Every religious at the point of death, be-
ing contrite and having confessed and com-
municated, or if not being able to receive,
shall invoke the holy name of Jesus with
the heart, if unable with the lips, shall re-
ceive a plenary indulgence.
Besides this, our late Holy Pontiff, Pius
IX, as well as our Holy Father, Leo XIII
and Pope Pius X, have, by several Eescripts,
signed with their own hand, granted the same
favor to all the religious of St. Joseph of
Carondelet, and to their benefactors and
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 37
relatives to the second and third degree.
They have^ moreover, conceded the favor of
the Apostolic Benediction at the hour of
death, to be given by any Priest whatever,
having faculties to exercise the functions of
his sacerdotal office.
In cases of fever, or other such illness
where excitement might be injurious, only
those in frequent attendance there enter the
Infirmary when the Holy Sacraments are ad-
ministered.
When a Sister is falling into her agony, if
it be before the Community has retired to
rest, the signal is given that we may assemble
and assist her by our prayers. If it be dur-
ing the night, as many of the Sisters assist
as can conveniently do so.
The blessed candle is kept lighted beside
her bed, holy water is copiously sprinkled,
the agonizing heart of Jesus is frequently and
fervently invoked, and other suitable aspira-
tions distinctly repeated. When the soul has
departed, the usual prayers are said.
The body is sprinkled with holy water in
the form of a cross, and, if it be in the day-
time, the bell is tolled ; if not, as soon as pos-
sible.
Those Sisters who have not been present at
the death, devoutly kneel, and raising their
hearts to God, fervently recite a De Pro-
38 MANUAL OF THE
fuiidis and a Pater and an Ave for the re-
pose of her soul.
Shortly after death, the face and hands
of the deceased are washed and the remains
clothed in the religious habit.
As a religious ought to love and cherish the
practice of poverty and simplicity during life,
these two virtues ought to accompany her
even to the grave; hence, a threadbare habit,
clean and neatly arranged, should be put on
the deceased.
A wreath is placed on the brow and stock-
ings are put on her feet.
If a Sister has died of a contagious disease,
every precaution is taken to prevent it from
spreading; the room is fumigated and the
coffin screwed down, the Infirmary locked,
etc. If the disease was not contagious, some
Sisters are appointed to succeed each other in
praying beside the remains until they are
taken to the chapel. On entering the In-
firmary, each Sister kneels and says a De
Profundis, etc.
The time having arrived to convey the
body to the chapel the bell is rung to assemble
the Community in the chapel, and when the
signal is given, all proceed, headed by a cross
bearer, to the Infirmary, bearing lighted
tapers, followed by the Priest and an acolyte,
carrying the holy water.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 39
The procession then returns to the Chapel,
the Superior and senior Sisters walking last,
immediately before the remains, which are
carried by the appointed Sisters. The coffin
is placed with feet towards the altar.
Six tall candlesticks, bearing lighted can-
dles, are placed three at each side of the cof-
fin. These candles are only lighted during
public exercises, such as the Mass, and Eos-
ary for the Dead.
At the head of the coffin is placed a small
table covered with white linen, on which are
arranged a crucifix, holy water and two wax
tapers, which are to be kept lighted. As far
as convenient, the Sisters watch beside the
corpse and pray for the deceased until the
interment takes place.
On solemn festivals, the remains are not
brought to the chapel until the Office of the
day is concluded. The coffin usually remains
uncovered until the close of the Eequiem
Mass, unless circumstances demand other-
wise.
Conformably to -our Constitutions, a Mass
is celebrated on the day of interment, for
the repose of the soul of the deceased Sister,
and also on the thirtieth and anniversary
days. The Psalm De Profundis is recited
for thirty days in succession for the same
intention.
40 MANUAL OF THE
When the absolution and prayers are con-
cluded, the cross bearer, with two acolytes, the
Priest and six Sisters appointed to carry
the coffin, go first, followed by the Sisters in
the procession, walking according to their
seniority, the Superior next to the remains.
If relatives are present, we permit them to
follow the coffin.
For the better observance of poverty only
three hired carriages are taken for the use
of the Sisters of the house in which the death
occurs. The coffin is made of plain ordinary
wood, stained or covered with cheap black
cloth and shall have six handles for the con-
venience of the pall-bearers.
At the head of each Sister^s grave a small,
plain white stone is placed, bearing the fol-
lowing inscription :
Sister
Died — 19— in the
year of her religious life.
Eequiescat in pace.
A large cross or a statute of St. Joseph may
be erected in the center of the burial plot.
If the cemetery is near the Convent, the
bell is tolled from the time the funeral pro-
cession leaves the chapel until it reaches it;
and if at a distance, it is tolled for a quarter
of an hour.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 41
Should a funeral take place on any of the
last three days of Holy Week, the bell is not
tolled.
When a Sister dies, the Superior of the
House gives immediate notice to the Superior-
Provincial, who notifies the Mother General
and sends an obituary card to all the Houses
of the Province, in order to procure promptly
the prayers and suffrages of the Sisters.
It is customary for the Superior of each
House of the Province to have a Mass and
the Eosary of the Dead said and a Com-
munion offered immediately upon being
notified of the death of any Sister.
Each House shall likewise have a Mass said
and a Communion offered once every month
for the deceased Sisters of the Congregation.
It would be desirable to have, if possible,
the Mass said on the same day on which
the Sisters communicate for that intention.
The Superior and Sisters of the House
where the death occurs are careful to offer a
Holy Communion and have a Mass said on
the thirtieth and anniversary days for the
repose of the deceased.
This being an obligation strictly enjoined
by the Canons of the Church should, on no
account, be wilfully neglected.
The following is the usual form for obitu-
ary cards :
42 MANUAL OF THE
J. M. J.
Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph,
of Carondelet.
We earnestly recommend to your prayers
the soul of our beloved Sister in Xt. N. N. — ,
who departed this life at N". IST.^, on the —
day of , 18 — , having received the last
rites of our Holy Mother, the Church, in the
— year of her age and the — of her religious
life.
Requiescat in pace.
THE OFFICE AND SPIRIT-
UAL EXERCISES
According to our Constitutions, we should
say the Office in the Chapel in a distinct and
audible manner.
This applies not only to the Office of the
Blessed Virgin, but also to all the vocal
prayers prescribed by Eule.
To succeed in saying the Office properly,
special attention should be given to have all
the voices unite in a harmonious and uniform
recitation, all having the same pitch and the
same measure of time. We stop long
enough to take a full breath at each asterisk.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 43
The intermediate parts should be recited in
an easy^ fluent manner^ not too fast, but by
no means too slow.
When obliged to rise at the ending of the
psalm in the office^ we do so after the ^^Gloria
Patri/^ not during it. We should incline not
only the head but the body while the ^^Gloria
Patri'^ is recited.
In order to prevent mistakes and conse-
quently, confusion, our Sisters whose turn it
is to officiate, will consider it a conscientious
duty to prepare themselves beforehand, by
noting any change in the Office requiring
special attention for its proper recitation.
They will endeavor to jnake the intonations
in a distinct and audible manner and in a
medium pitch of voice, easily attainable by
the choir.
When needing information concerning any
part of the Office, we should be humble
enough to ask it with great simplicity of
those who can instruct us.
All the Sisters should, according to custom,
endeavor to take their turn in officiating or
saying the Community prayers; and when
lawfully hindered in the performance of this
duty, they should give timely notice to their
Superior and request her to appoint another
Sister to fill their place.
To comply with the obligation of saying or
44 MANUAL OF THE
reciting the Office or any vocal prayers pre-
scribed by Eule, it is not sufficient to advert
to it mentally ; we must pronounce the words.
Only some unavoidable necessity should
prevent our Sisters from joining with the
Community in the performance of this truly
angelic occupation.
Sisters who say the Community prayers in
turn^ should do so with great reverence and
in such a tone of voice as will inspire devotion
and a sense of the holy presence of God.
As the fervor and devotion of the Com-
munity may be greatly increased by the due
performance of this duty^ so the same may
be greatly hindered hy a careless and hurried
discharge of it.
Hence^ to guard against deserving the
menace of the Prophet Jeremiah: Cursed
he he that doeth the work of the Lord deceit-
fully, the Sisters will endeavor to enter into
those interior dispositions which actuate the
heavenly spirits in chanting the divine
praises.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
45
THE VOWS TAKEN IN OUR
CONGREGATION
They are the three simple and perpetual
vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience, as
explained in our Constitutions.
By a recent ordinance of the Holy See^ our
novices aspiring to profession cannot be per-
mitted to take perpetual vows immediately,
but after the usual term of novitiate has been
completed^ they are to make annual vows, to
be renewed every year for five consecutive
years, after which, all things being found
satisfactory, they will be allowed to bind
themselves by perpetual vows.
Anyone desiring to obtain a dispensation
from these vows, — either perpetual or annual
vows, — ^before the expiration of the year, —
must apply to the Holy See of Eome, which,
when approving our Constitutions, absolutely
reserved to itself a dispensation from the
same.
The Sisters should cherish their holy vows
as the precious bonds which bind them so
securely to their Heavenly Spouse, and en-
deavor by a great fidelity in keeping them, to
obtain the grace of final perseverance,
\
46 MANUAL OF THE
THE VOW OF POVERTY
A true religious^, striving after perfection^
must renounce everything that could hinder
her from attaining it.
Among the many impediments are worldly
goods, which our Lord, in the Gospel, calls
'^Thorns stifling in the hearts of men, the
seed of the word of God/^
The soul that desires to follow Christ must
free herself from the fetters which bind her to
earth. This she does by the sacred vow of
Poverty. As implied in our Constitutions,
the matter of the vow of Poverty includes :
All goods, movable or immovable, which a
Sister may have given or ceded to the Congre-
gation ; her trousseau, for example, and other
gratuitous donations she may have made.
All the gifts she receives through alms,
affection or gratitude ; all the products of her
industry, her labor and her patrimonial
possessions, every act of proprietorship in
relation to her patrimonial possessions, of
which she can make no disposition without
the permission of her Superiors.
It follows from this:
1. That a Sister of St. Joseph can retain
no sum of money, however small and trifling.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 47
2. That she can receive no deposit oblig-
ing her to be responsible if the object con-
fided to her be destroyed^ since such an act
would be a contract.
3. She cannot receive anything in her
own name from her parents^ friends^ or
from any person^ whatsoever, or under any
title, either in payment for services or as a
simple donation. Anything received in this
way by our Sisters, as money, books, station-
ery and articles of clothing, such as habits,
veils, shoes, etc., should be immediately given
to the Superior, to be disposed of as seems
best to her.
4. That she cannot give to the poor what
she may retrench from her own food; for,
what she does not consume, belongs not to
her but to the Community; unless a certain
prescribed , quantity be given her with a
clearly expressed right to dispose of the sur-
plus in good works, without any obligation to
render an account of the same.
5. That she cannot hide clothes, utensils,
books, etc., which are assigned for her use,
for fear that the Superior might take them
from her.
ISTeither can a Sister take with her from
one house to another, anything whatever,
except her personal clothing, her writings and
compositions which, as the products of her
48
MANUAL OF THE
own mind^ cannot be considered tempora]
goods.
School and text-books, however, as well as
prayer and spiritual books appointed for her
use, can be taken with the permission of the
Superior of the house she leaves.
6. That she cannot, of her own accord,
change with her Sisters objects which have
been given her for her own use.
7. That when she is charged to distribute
anything, she cannot dispose of it according
to her own fancy contrary to the will and
intention of her Superiors. If she give more
or less, or something better or inferior, accord-
ing to her taste, she acts as proprietor.
This might happen on the part of those
who are charged to dispense the goods of the
Community.
8. That she cannot injure, destroy or
transform objects which are given for her
use and for a certain purpose.
9. That she cannot lend to others what she
has received for her own use, unless there is
question of ordinary objects which are, so to
speak, public property of the Community.
10. That, if permitted to purchase arti-
cles of wearing apparel, etc., she cannot, in
their selection, deviate from the expressed in-
tentions of the Superior with regard to either
their quality or quantity.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 49
11. That she cannot, without permission,
renounce any legacy or inheritance, as such
renunciation would be an act of proprietor-
ship.
12. That she cannot, of her own accord,
either by word or act, dispense anyone from
paying to the Community what is its Just due,
such as the religious dowry, children's tuition
or a lawful remuneration of services rendered
by the Community.
Every permission concerning the matter
and the practice of the vow of Poverty is
valid, when freely given by those who have a
right to grant it, and it is lawful when given
for good reasons.
Permissions, therefore, possessing both
these qualities will save our Sisters from
faults against Poverty.
A Superior cannot give an irrevocable per-
mission ; neither can she grant what would in
its own nature be contrary to the condition of
a poor religious, such as to use costly and
luxuriant articles, to make use of wearing
apparel which is too much in keeping with the
style, the fashions and customs of the world.
A violation of the vow of Poverty is always
a more or less serious fault, according to the
matter.
It is generally agreed, that the matter
which, in a child stealing from its parents,
50 MANUAL OF THE
would constitute a mortal sin of theft, suffices
to cause religious to sin mortally against
their vow of Poverty.
Improvements and repairs undertaken by
Local Superiors, that exceed twenty-five dol-
lars, require the approbation of higher Super-
iors.
The ^'^limif' mentioned in Part 11, Chapter
IV, Paragraph 5, of Holy Eule, is fixed at
two dollars. Any gift of greater value re-
quires the special permission of higher
Superiors.
The virtue of Poverty extends farther than
the vow since it regulates even the desires of
the heart in regard to temporal possessions.
Therefore, we say: The vow of Poverty
empties the hands, but the virtue despoils the
heart.
The virtue of Poverty is practiced in dress
by choosing what is plain and simple; in
lodging, by not using the most convenient;
in furniture, by being satisfied with what is
barely needed, and that of an inferior char-
acter ; in food, by being content with what is
served; in journeys, by not making those
which are not absolutely necessary and useful,
and by not choosing expensive modes of
traveling; in the employment of time, by not
wasting it, and by using it according to the
Eule or the directions of Superiors; in the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 51
presents which one is authorized to give, by
not making them too expensive, and by seek-
ing those which will benefit the soul.
The years as they pass bring more and
more conveniences, even luxuries^ into gen-
eral use. Let us be watchful that the spirit
of the world does not so influence us as to
make us desire to have unnecessary articles
either for our work or for personal use. In
our duty certain objects may be so helpful as
to seem almost an essential to good work
while in another place or occupation there
would be no need at all. With the sanction
of obedience let us make use of such things
in time or place or position requiring them
and give them up in the spirit of poverty
when they cease to be necessary. Fountain
pens, stationery, articles needed by one who
travels often, would come under this head.
Let us have no superfluities to account for.
However, a Daughter of St. Joseph, ever
faithful in following the rules of the common
life, will rarely transgress in matters of Pov-
erty. She will, in the practice of Poverty,
study, as her model, the Holy Family at
Nazareth.
52 MANUAL OF THE
THE VOW OF CHASTITY
Our Constitutions, in treating of the vow
of Chastity, sufficiently explain its object and
its obligation, and, likewise, point out to
us the means of insuring its faithful obser-
yance.
Hence, we should frequently read this por-
tion of the Constitutions and attentively
meditate on the greatness of the grace vouch-
safed us when, being permitted to con-
secrate ourselves wholly and entirely to God,
we become the Spouses of Jesus Christ.
Our Holy Mother the Church, cherishing
virgins consecrated to God as the choicest por-
tion of the flock of Christ, is accustomed to
surround them with special care; and she
pronounces her anathemas against those who
would hinder any one of them in the execution
of her holy purpose. She, as a watchful
mother, likewise provides them with every
•help and needed grace to aid them to preserve
unspotted the priceless treasure of holy Chas-
tity.
To prove ourselves her grateful children,
we should be not less zealous to guard than
faithful in appreciating the jewel so greatly
prized by her.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 63
To succeed in this^ we carefully employ
those means pointed out to us in the various
parts of our Constitutions and in this Manual
of Customs^ particularly under the head of
Enclosure.
Having by the vovr of Chastity renounced
the love of pleasure^ we should naturally cher-
ish its opposite — the love and practice of
mortification.
We should be lovers of the cross and habit-
ually dwell in the wounds of Jesus Christ
crucified.
^The Spouses of Jesus/^ says St. Francis
of Sales^ "should^ as inhabitants of Calvary^
be divested of all human desires and affec-
tions, as Jesus was of his garments when he
arrived there; so that having laid aside the
robe of their captivity by a faithful renunci-
ation of all, they may be clothed in the gar-
ment of original innocence and justice and
be confirmed in holiness and truth.^^
By carefully attending to the following
points we will guard against many faults,
and maintain in ourselves and others whom
our example may benefit, that angelic purity
and modesty, so delightful to behold.
1. To carefully mortify our curiosity,
especially of the eyes. Hence, good religious
are never seen at the windows, nor public
places, except through necessity.
54 MANUAL OF THE
2. Never read the daily secular papers
without permission nor other trashy news, as
sentimental story books, nor permit those de-
pending upon us to read them; for, without
exception, they have a tendency to demoralize
and rob the soul of all taste for prayer and
spiritual reading, leaving it weak and power-
less in the time of temptation.
3. Never indulge in particular friend-
ships with anyone, and dread as the very pest,
words of flattery or suspicious compliments,
which are calculated to poison pure minds.
4. Avoid worldly conversations, indelicate
and equivocal expressions unbecoming a
Spouse of our Lord, and never join in worldly
songs or gay pastimes or plays in which there
is too much familiarity.
5. Faithfully observe the Eules concern-
ing the parlor, which we should enter with
reluctance and leave with pleasure.
6. Endeavor to deserve the Divine protec-
tion by humility, for it is to the humble He
gives His special assistance at the moment of
temptation; and carefully remember that a
religious may sometimes do much harm by
a departure from the Eules of exterior
modesty and by being too free in her inter-
course with the world, which, as a severe
though generally correct critic, expects noth-
ing less than an angelic modesty, and a purity
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 55
above suspicion in a virgin consecrated to
God.
We have reason then^ to follow the fre-
quently-repeated exhortation of our Lord:
"Watch and pray.^^ "Again I say to you,
ivatch/'
GENERAL REMARKS ON
OBEDIENCE
A religious by the vow of Obedience,
pledges her solemn word to God to renounce
her own will and henceforth to do His, which
shall be signified to her by her Eules and her
Superiors.
Ever mindful, therefore, of this promise
and persevering in its accomplishment, she
may rest assured that our Lord will never
allow Himself to be surpassed in generosity.
Obedience is absolutely necessary in every
religious Community ; without it, no religious
life is possible. Devoid of its spirit, we could
never venture to lay claim to the honorable
title of "Spouses of Jesus,^^ who made Him-
self "Obedient unto death.^'
To learn it, we should direct our eyes and
hearts to the lowly cottage where Jesus, the
56 MANUAL OF THE
eternal wisdom, teaches its sublime lessons.
The holy house at Nazareth should be the
school most frequented by the Daughter of St.
Joseph.
We have many visible and invisible enemies.
To be victorious, we should establish our
obedience in a perfect abnegation of our own
will, that happily vanquishing here on earth,
we may triumph hereafter gloriously in
Heaven, to recount our victories in the pres-
ence of God, of his angels and saints, for
according to the Scripture, "The obedient
man shall recount victories.'^
According to St. Chrysostom, "man found
his destruction in rebellion and will find his
crown in submission/^ Obedience^ pointing
out to us the bright star of the sweet will of
God, ought, therefore, to be the pilot to steer
our little barque safely through the shoals
and quicksands, the trials and temptations
of the stormy sea of this mortal life.
Humbly submissive to its guidance, we shall
happily reach the port of a blessed eternity.
To render obedience meritorious, it should
be animated by the spirit of faith, viewing
God, not man, in the person of Superiors;
regarding the Constitutions, approved cus-
toms and regulations emanating from lawful
authority, not as commandments made by
man which we are at liberty to reject, but as
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 57
the expressed will of the Almighty who has
received our vow.
The Sisters, therefore, should hold in high
esteem everything relating to obedience^ and
consider the faithful practice thereof as the
safest, surest, and shortest road t^ Heaven.
PERMISSIONS
Any work or undertaking not provided for
in the Constitutions, or by the regulations
contained in this Manual, and cases of emer-
gency, where circumstances would seem to
authorize a dispensation from established
rules and customs, should, whenever possible,
be previously submitted to lawful authority,
requesting its sanction and direction. Should
the necessity of the case not permit any de-
lay, Superiors and Sisters will consult the
rules of charity and religious discretion,
acting conscientiously in the matter, as the
glory of God and the good of souls may de-
mand; taking care, however, to report the
case, such as it stands before God, as soon
as convenient, to their immediate Superiors.
General permissions or dispensations
granted for a long or indefinite time, should
58 MANUAL OF THE
be renewed once a month; dispensation from
Office;, once a year.
Permissions and dispensations to be valid
must be obtained from lawful authority, viz :
Our own religious Superiors; they must,
moreover, be lawful, that is, founded on
weighty reasons, to promote a great good or
to prevent some evil.
Hence, to ask a permission to do things
that are in themselves calculated to do harm,
or to be dispensed from a duty or an obser-
vance without a real necessity, could neither
be lawfully asked nor validly given.
An extorted permission, or one consented
to for the sake of peace, does not authorize
religious to act with safety of conscience.
Permissions granted to our predecessors in
office cannot be considered valid in our case,
but if needed, should be asked by us person-
ally. The same may be said of permissions
or dispensations granted by the predecessors
of our actual Superiors.
SISTEES OF ST. JOSEPH 69
HUMILITY AND CHARITY
These two virtues form the basis of our
Institute^ and by excelling in the love and
practice of them^ we shall be known to be
Daughters of the humble and hidden Saint of
JsTazareth.
St. Jane Frances de Chantal says, ''True
humility requires of us, that when we are
humbled, we humble ourselves still more, and
when accused, to accuse ourselves still more/^
Our Lord in the Gospel tells us to learn of
him — not to work miracles, but to be meek
and humble : "Learn of me, for I am meek
and humble of heart,^^ and the promise of the
recompense attached to our docility is, in the
words of our Divine Master : ^^And you shall
find rest for your souls/^
Could we, as Spouses of our Lord, be indif-
ferent in this matter?
Humility will make us truly happy, con-
tented with everything and with everybody.
It is easily pleased ; it is satisfied with coarse
or old clothing, objects not to a thread-bare
habit nor to plain, ordinary shoes. It de-
lights in humble offices and rejoices when
able to imitate our Lord in making himself
the servant of his creatures.
60 MANUAL OF THE
It inspires a love of silence in regard to our
supposed advantages, and makes us generous
in owning our ignorance and deficiency in
virtue.
In our Constitutions simplicity is joined
to humility, since the one cannot well subsist
without the other.
Our Lord and Savior, wishing to show his
apostles the necessity of these two virtues,
placed a little child in their midst, saying:
^^Unless you become like unto this little child,
you shall not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.^^
What a menace from the lips of Eternal
Truth ! It leaves no alternative. If we wish
to be saved, we must become simple and hum-
ble.
And, what greater farce could there be than
to conceal a proud mind and a worldly, un-
generous heart under the poor garb of a
Sister of St. Joseph?
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
61
CHARITY
The queen of virtues should be at home in
the hearts of the children of St. Joseph^ since
by the fervor and zeal with which it is there
cherished^ they are to be recognized. No
other virtue will give us a stronger claim on
the mercy and charity of the Heart of our
Spouse than this royal virtue.
The fundamental principle of charity to-
wards our neighbor is the love of God. We
should love him because of God^ in God;, and
according to the will of God. We should
measure the charity we exercise towards our
neighbor by the measure of His merciful and
generous charity towards us.
The rules concerning the practice of this
beautiful virtue, laid down in our Constitu-
tions, are so ample and explicit that little
mor€ remains to be said, except to encourage
ourselves to a great fidelity in their exact
observance, as the surest means of preserving
the Eeligious of our Institute from the in-
vasion of an evil greatly to be dreaded.
This evil is an inordinate love of talking,
which invariably results in countless sins
against charitj.
62 MANUAL OF THE
^TVhere there are many words, sin is not
wanting/^ says the Apostle. Oh, how de-
plorable the evils, how multitudinous the sins
occasioned by an unbridled tongue, which St.
James says, "is set on fire by hell V^
Who can count them^ who can calculate
their mischief ? Who could estimate the loss
of glory to God, perhaps even the loss of some
souls, and the vocations frustrated as their
consequence ?
Who would be willing to answer for the de-
struction of union and concord in Communi-
ties consecrated to God; for the coldness and
indifference between companions; for the
want of confidence between Superiors and
subjects^ all the consequence of sins of the
tongue.
Indiscreet remarks, unguarded expressions,
revealing of secrets repeated to persons whom
they concern, is enough to destroy happiness
for a lifetime, sufficient to affect a whole gen-
eration.
Who will take away the bitterness from the
hearts of the victims of uncharitableness and
extract the poison from the minds of the
listeners?
Who would, considering all these evils, be
willing to assert that such a remark, such an
idle tale, such a report, such a repetition of a
disedifying story is only a trifle ?
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 63
The Apostle assures us that ^^if any man
thinketh himself religious^, not bridling his
tongue, his religion is vain/^
Some spiritual writers, treating of this
plague, call it a diabolical possession, and say,
that this sin is the plenitude of the evil one
with abundance and persistency.
Why? Because in a Community where
there is an imprudent, indiscreet and incon-
siderate talker, the devil is not needed to
tempt. The evil which he could not do, is
done by his agent far more effectually. The
result is dreadful to think of.
What sacrifices ought we not to be willing
to make to oppose the entrance of such an
enemy? We shall do so by silence, humility
and prayer, and by endeavoring to stop in
their beginning, with earnestness and deter-
mination, the repetition and dissemination of
tales and remarks affecting the reputation of
anyone.
64 MANUAL OF THE
ENCLOSURE
AS ORDAINED BY OUR CONSTITUTIONS
Though obliged by our Institute to go occa-
sionally abroad^ yet we ought never to prolong
our visits nor stay outside of our convents
beyond the requirements of necessity or char-
ity.
^*^Our houses/^ says our venerated founder
in his admirable letter to our first Sisters,*
*^^ought to resemble the tabernacle, which is
constantly locked. The religious should
never leave them but through obedience and
charity, and return immediately to the hidden
life in Christ Jesus/^
As a religious Institute approved by the
Holy See^ we are strictly held to observe the
rules of enclosure, that bind equally all
religious persons. We are separated, set
apart from the world and consecrated to God.
This, we ought to show in our daily lives and
conduct.
Our Constitutions ordain that great care
should be taken that in our houses the apart-
ments of the religious be entirely separated
from those of seculars. This certainly im-
plies a conscientious duty which our Supe-
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 65
rioTs and Sisters should always endeavor to
keep in view in the erection of new buildings,
the remodeling of houses already built, in
hospitals, orphanages, boarding schools, —
in fine, in any establishments wherein secu-
lars are received.
Some convenient portion of the house, en-
tirely apart from seculars and their apart-
ments, should in every one of our houses be
reserved for the religious, in order to foster
the love of retirement and seclusion.
The more religious can be removed from
communication with persons from the out-
side^ the more they will appreciate and profit
by the security which their little enclosure
affords them.
The less freedom we permit seculars in re-
gard to our persons or our apartments, the
more they will respect us as religious.
The Sisters should observe the same separa-
tion in their chapel, and never permit seculars
to mix up with the religious.
It is strongly recommended, that in all our
houses the parlor doors be provided with
glass.
When Sisters attend service in the public
church, they do not separate from one another
or mingle with the people unnecessarily.
A general sense of propriety and prudent
delicacy will prevent our Sisters living in
bb MANUAL OF THE
small mission houses to encourage persons of
the world though they be near relatives^ to
pay them visits of more than a passing dura-
tion. Unless the house be sufficiently large
to afford a private room apart from the Com-
munity, they should not be received.
Above all, they cannot be permitted to
lodge men.
If, as true children of St. Joseph, we have
any zeal for regular observance and the pro-
motion of the interior spirit; and, moreover,
if we are desirous to avoid the dreadful re-
sponsibility of having introduced abuses into
the Congregation, let us refrain from desiring
or receiving visits except those we cannot
avoid.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 67
DUTIES OF HOSPITALITY
When our Sisters^ in traveling, stop at any
of our houses on the way, the Sisters endeavor
to receive them with the greatest cordiality of
manner and to do everything in their power
to make them feel at home.
They also provide them with those little
comforts so refreshing to the weary traveler^
such as a bath, or at least a foot-bath. When-
ever possible, we also furnish them with a
private apartment^ that they may have more
facility to take a good rest.
We furnish them a change of underwear
and linen, if needed.
When setting out again on their journey^,
the Superior and Sisters strive to provide
them with the necessary comforts for the con-
tinuance of their journey ; and^ remembering
that our Lord Himself is received in the
person of the stranger and the pilgrim, they
consider Him especially in the person of their
Sisters who have come to claim their hospi-
tality.
When we receive, as guests. Sisters from
another Community, we should treat them
with great politeness and cordiality as fellow
68 MANUAL OF THE
Spouses of Jesus Christy and strive to accom-
modate them with a private apartment.
Though we may show them through the
house and manifest towards them true sis-
terly affection and sincere kindness^ yet we do
not permit them to mix up with the Com-
munity either at table or in the community
room.
Exception is made for Diocesan Sisters of
St. Joseph.
The Superior will see that the visitors are
becomingly served in their own room or in a
private dining-room.
She also sends Sisters to entertain them
at stated times^ unless they object to extra
attentions.
All endeavor to exercise a prudent thought-
fulness in their regard^ that both the visitors
and the hosts may be mutually edified.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
FORM OF RELIGIOUS
DRESS
The mode of dress prescribed for the Con-
gregation, which should as much as possible
be uniform in its material and simple in its
form, is as follows :
The habit of black woolen serge, nearly two
yards wide when double, should not quite
touch the ground. The sleeves, twelve inches
wide when double, should reach to the tips of
the fingers, and should be made with narrow
rolled hem, and fitted to the waist by putting
two plaits on the back of the shoulders.
The waist of the habit is perfectly plain;
hooked in front and covered with the front
width of the skirt, which is longer than the
others, and gathered into six even plaits, three
and three, turned towards the center, which
are held in place by a strong black tape or
braid sewed on the inside and tied round the
waist of the habit. It is then adjusted over
the whole front of the waist and fastened at
the ends to the shoulders with pins.
Under- veils are made according to the pat-
tern at the Mother House. Likewise, under-
sleeves and head wraps. By ^^The under-
70 MANUAL OF THE
veil shall be of the same material, etc./^ is
meant that the fronts be of the same material
as the veil. The back shall be lawn or old
veiling.
Veils are made with narrow rolled hem,
and should not extend more than six inches
below the waist, nor be more than thirty-
two inches wide.
Conformably to a decision of the Third
General Assembly, veiling, linen and cinc-
tures are to be procured at the Mother or
Provincial Houses.
We wear our crucifix, the badge of our pro-
fession, on a worsted, not a silken cord; no
reliquaries or medals are attached to the
same.
A black rosary^ consisting of five decades,
is worn at our cincture.
The Sisters should always wear black
skirts; and in warm climates, where the
heat is excessive, their light summer skirts
should be covered with black, at least around
the bottom. Skirts made in a worldly
fashion should not be worn.
The underclothing of the Sisters is gen-
erally made of white cotton, neckerchiefs^
night-caps and day-caps of white muslin.
The handkerchiefs are white linen.
Night-gowns are made of print, with a
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 71
yoke and long sleeves without ruffles or orna-
ments.
Silk gloves may be worn in summer.
Black woolen or silk in winter.
The shoes are black and plain. Buttoned
shoes are never worn.
Shawls of black cashmere or lighter mater-
ial are worn in summer and woolen ones in
winter.
Black or check aprons are worn when doing
manual work or when serving in the refectory^
kitchen^ etc.
During a lingering illness^ Sisters usually
wear a dressing gown of the same material as
their habit or black goods of lighter weight.
72 MANUAL OF THE
GENERAL CUSTOMS OF
THE SISTERS
We approach Holy Communion two by two,
and on general Communion days, according
to our rank. Before leaving our places, we
take pains to adjust carefully our religious
dress, drawing the sleeves of our habits over
the hands, which we hold reverently folded
with fingers turned upwards, and having our
veil modestly drawn over our faces, we walk
towards the altar with that modesty and de-
corum which is suggestive of the interior dis-
positions required for so great an action. Ar-
rived at the holy table, we genuflect together
and do not raise the veil until the Priest has
given the absolution. Having received, we
lower our veil, and if there are others to
communicate, we leave the railing according
to the prescribed order. If the small num-
ber of communicants does not require us to
make room for others, we remain kneeling
until the Priest has replaced the Blessed
Sacrament in the tabernacle.
We raise our veil immediately after the
last blessing at Mass. We never omit to
make a quarter of an hour's thanksgiving
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 73
after Holy Communion, and do not leave the
chapel before its termination without some
unavoidable necessity.
In large Communities, such as the Mother
House, those Sisters whose charges require
immediate attention after Mass, and those in
Mission houses who can only assist at a late
Mass, are accustomed to receive Holy Com-
munion before Mass, so as not to forego the
inestimable graces to be obtained from a
loving and fervent intercourse with our
Divine Savior during the time of His sacra-
mental presence in our hearts.
If at any time we receive Holy Communion
in the parish church, we observe the same
customs as in our chapel. We usually receive
before the communicants of the congrega-
tion.
In going to church or school at some dis-
tance from the House, the Sisters will walk in
proper order, two by two, the younger ones in
advance, having their veils a little lowered.
All are careful on such occasions not to ren-
der themselves singular by affecting an ap-
pearance different in dress and manner from
the rest of the Community. It is the Supe-
rior's duty to see that each of her Sisters be
provided alike with whatever is necessary, not
only in regard to actual wants, but likewise
in regard to those things which help to estab-
74 MANUAL OF THE
lish a becoming uniformity in external ap-
pearance, so desirable in a religious Com-
munity.
In assisting at the Holy Sacrifice of the
Mass, we sit or kneel in such postures as befit
the sanctity of the action.
In passing before the Blessed Sacrament,
we genuflect on the right knee, and reverently
bow the head.
We are careful while in the chapel to avoid
making noise with the benches, praying
aloud, etc. ; and in all parts of the house we
endeavor to act with that modesty and de-
corum so becoming to the house of the Lord.
On making a mistake in the Office by re-
citing the wrong psalm or verse, we kneel
and kiss the floor or bench, thus acknowl-
edging the fault committed.
We also perform the like penance when,
from carelessness or inadvertence, we slam the
doors and windows, or are otherwise the occa-
sion of any noise by which the quiet and
silence of the house is disturbed.
When the signal is given five minutes in
advance of any of the spiritual exercises, we
promptly cease all conversation, to dispose
ourselves for the worthy performance of the
same.
Wliatever is contrary to Rule on ordinary
days is also prohibited on recreation days.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 75
such as talking in the dormitory^ the cor-
ridors and the refectory^ out of meal time.
Though custom sanctions a dispensation
from the usual silence during meals on recrea-
tion days^ yet to comply with the obligations
of reading daily some portion of our Constitu-
tions^ or Spiritual Directory^ a chapter thereof
is read at the evening meal.
The recollection usual during the hour of
strict silence need not be disturbed beyond the
customary civilities on the arrival at that time
of any Sisters who may be either traveling
or have come on a visit;, except when their
stay is to be of short duration^ in which case
the Superior may give permission to the
Sisters to converse together.
To the Superiors and the other officers of
the Community we endeavor to show every
mark of respect. We rise when the Superior
enters or leaves the community^ or any other
assembly room, except during any of the
spiritual exercises.
The juniors should be very respectful to
the senior Sisters, and show the greatest
readiness to assist the aged and infirm Sis-
ters. When older Sisters, entering the assem-
bly room, find no seat prepared, the juniors
rise to present them one.
We do not leave the community room, or
other place in which we are engaged, without
76 MANUAL OF THE
the permission of the Superior, or, in her
absence, that of the senior Sister present.
In order to save time and trouble it is de-
sirable that the Sisters not actually engaged
in the house usually remain in the com-
munity room, and when going elsewhere
leave word where they may be found.
When a Sister feels ill and unable to rise
in the morning, she requests another Sister
who occupies the same dormitory to acquaint
the Superior or Assistant of her indisposi-
tion, that she may be attended to.
Conformably to our Constitutions, we
neither write nor receive letters without per-
mission from the Superior to whose inspec-
tion our correspondence should ever be sub-
ject. When visiting, during vacation, or at
any other time, we do not write letters until
we return to our respective convents, without
special leave from our own local Superior.
During Lent and Advent, we neither write
nor receive letters, nor visitors in the parlor,
unless in case of great necessity.
When our Constitutions declare that the
Eule regulating correspondence does not
apply to letters written by the Sisters to the
Superiors of the Congregation, it simply
explains that the Sisters are at perfect liberty
to correspond at any time with the Superior-
General, the Mother- Assistant, and with their
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 77
respective Provincials^ also with the Bishop
of the Diocese.
Useless and too frequent correspondence,
either with the Sisters of the Institute or with
externs, as well as the waste of time and
writing material employed therein, has been
strongly condemned by an act of the General
Chapter, held in March^ 1887, as a direct
infringement on religious poverty and a
fruitful source of dissipation and of number-
less occasions for the violation of charity.
When writing, we endeavor to be circum-
spect, that our letters may edify all who have
occasion to read them.
It is strongly recommended to return to the
practice of a Decree of the Chapter of 1893,
which says: "The Sisters will refrain from
asking permission to visit their homes, as
only the most urgent cases will be consid-
ered.^^
With permission of the Superior, the Sis-
ters may send occasional tokens of remem-
brance to their friends or companions, such
as medals, pictures, beads of trifling value,
etc.
When Sisters are removed from one house
to another, the Superior or Sister appointed
by her, sees that they are provided with a
suitable outfit of habit, veil, etc., and allows
them to take their personal clothing, prayer
78 MANUAL OP THE .
boolsis^ and such other spiritual books as they
have permission to use.
Good linen should be given to Sisters when
they leave one house for another^ or visit at
any of the houses.
It is customary for us to ask a penance for
having soiled or injured any part of the
religious dress^ or when anything is broken,
wasted^ or lost^ which we have in use.
For the sake of good order, it is desirable
that each article of clothing be marked with
each Sister's number. Poverty requires that
the books we have in use should be covered
neatly and carefully handled.
We kneel when asking the Superior for a
dispensation or penance, for permission to
perform an act of humility, to mend garments
and when we ask for a habit, veil, shoes or any
article of clothing.
We carefully avoid opening another Sister's
drawer, nor do we remove anything from it
without the permission of the Superior and of
her to whom it belongs.
To be too particularly precise about per-
sonal appearance, and to lose time at one's
toilet is contrary to poverty and the religious
spirit. The use of perfumery is prohibited.
Scented waters are only permitted in sickness,
when necessary.
When going to the parlor^ we remember
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 79
that we are going to a place where the evil one
is ever ready to lay snares for the unwary.
We are^ therefore, on our guard against the
insinuations of the spirit of the world. We
arrange our toilet in a becoming manner,
conceal our hands in the sleeves of the habit,
and are accompanied by another Sister, ex-
cept when the visitors are near relatives, in
which case the Superior acts as she thinks
proper.
This rule does not apply to those who are
called there on business relating to their
office.
Whilst in the parlor we avoid all forward-
ness of manner, useless or worldly conversa-
tions, and whatever may be unbecoming in a
religious; but above all, we never entertain
our friends with the affairs of the Com-
munity.
We do not remain longer than half an hour,
nor after the bell has been rung for any
spiritual exercise, without permission.
A special permission is required to have
a picture snapped by kodak. Sisters should
exercise caution in this matter.
In taking leave of our visitors, we do so in
the parlor, not in the halls, the senior Sister
present accompanying them to the door.
We carefully abstain from criticising the
dress, manners, or appearance of others ; such
80 MANUAL OF THE
being contrary, not only to Christian charity,
but even to common politeness.
To question novices and postulants with
regard to their station in life, their family, or
similar subjects, when we are not charged to
do so by obedience, is in direct opposition to
the religious spirit, which we are obliged to
inculcate by word and example.
Intercourse between the professed and the
novices is strictly prohibited and cannot take
place, without a special permission from the
Superior and the Mistress. Those only who
are engaged in teaching them can enter the
novitiate. The Sisters with whom the nov-
ices may be employed in any charge have
nothing further to say to them than what con-
cerns the employment, and are not permitted
to enter the novitiate.
They carefully refrain from saying or doing
anything that miight scandalize novices, re-
membering that early impressions are never
effaced.
Considering that they are only beginners
in the religious life, they should patiently bear
with their shortcomings, and endeavor to
edify them by their humility, charity, obedi-
ence, love of silence and prayer.
In calling or addressing each other, we use
the endearing title of "Sister/^ as it cannot
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 81
be considered a mark of esteem to call a re-
ligious by the name she bears in the convent
without the title of Sister.
In the discharge of our duties^ we show
great diligence^ neatness^ and exactness, re-
membering Him for whom we labor; still we
never attempt to carry anything too heavy,
nor perform any duty above our strength.
We take a general interest in rendering
service to the Community, or to individual
Sisters; yet, we never interfere with the
duties of another, unless so directed by the
proper authority; but should a Sister so far
forget herself as to be officious, the other
need not be offended nor reproach her harshly.
Those who have charge of any apartment,
open the windows in the morning if the
weather be fine, and close them before night-
fall in cool weather. In this respect Sisters
are careful to follow the dictates of good
sense, according to the locality and climate
in which they live.
No Sister supplies the place of another in
any duty without permission, except in cases
of urgent necessity. If any Sister feels
unable to do her charge, she endeavors to
notify the Superior or the Assistant, that an-
other may be appointed to fill her place.
"When visiting the infirmary we carefully
82 MANUAL OF THE
avoid whatever might be a subject of annoy-
ance to the sick^ such as loud laughter^ talk-
ing, etc.
In order to observe that modesty so forcibly
recommended by our holy Eule, we do not
converse when walking on the street, or when
traveling in public conveyances. On such
occasions we strive to avoid whatever might
tend to disedify.
Should there seem to be any necessity for
holding conversation with persons addressing
us on the street, or in public conveyances, we
politely excuse ourselves, and request them to
call at the convent.
When meeting with friends or acquaint-
ances in public, we acknowledge the recog-
nition only by a modest salutation.
School funds, or any other money received,
should never be kept in our possession longer
than one day, but should be given in that
evening to the Superior^ or put in the ap-
pointed place.
As decreed in the First General Chapter,
the Sisters who are engaged in teaching
schools, independent of the house in which
they reside, are entirely under the jurisdic-
tion of the Superior of such House. Their
wants are supplied from the school funds.
When anything is to be published in the
newspaper, or otherwise, care is taken that
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 83
the matter for publication be precise and
correct.
The Sisters are not permitted to take
charge of church choirs but if desired by the
Pastors^ they may attend to any singing that
is called for at the Children's Mass^ and may
go to the choir loft at that mass if necessary ;
may also teach an occasional mass and the
Vesper Psalms to the children, but may not
go to the choir loft, nor have anything to do
with the choir, for the parochial Mass or
Vespers, not even when the choir is composed
entirely of children.
In the selection of music for the same, they
should only use that which is in keeping with
the requirements of the Sacred Liturgy, as all
worldly and profane airs, being a scandal in
the house of God, have been condemned by
the Church.
Sisters shall not teach music to boys over
twelve years of age. However, should a
pupil complete his twelfth year during a term,
that term may be finished but another must
not be begun.
We are not allowed to act as sacristans in
parish churches, nor as janitors in parish
schools.
Our Sisters may, however, teach ladies and
young girls how to decorate the altars, take
care of church linen, repair the sacred vest-
84 MANUAL OF THE
ments^ etc. Above all^ in their instructions
to them on this pointy the}^ should insist on
order, neatness and cleanliness.
The general laws of religious discipline re-
quire that Sisters should not be out of their
convents after nightfall; hence, nothing but
an unavoidable necessity, such as traveling,
should dispense our Sisters from observing
this regulation ; Sisters may not attend serv-
ices in the Church after night-fall nor be
present at public entertainments at night;
not even those given by their pupils.
It is not customary for us to attend at
Divine service in any but our own parish
churches, except on rare occasions, nor do we
go from church to church (where there are
many), to visit the Eepositories on Holy
Thursday. We generally accompany our
children to the parish church on this day, and
teach them to unite in bands to pray before
the Blessed Sacrament.
When a poor person applies for an alms, we
give provisions or some article of clothing not
belonging to the religious dress ; but we never
give money^ unless in case of great neces-
sity.
Our Sisters endeavor to avoid all unneces-
sary expense in food, clothing or traveling.
They carefully guard against living beyond
the income of their house and incurring
SISTERS 01^ ST. JOSEPH 85
debts. If there is any house found not to be
self-supporting^ recourse is to be had to the
Provincial House on which it depends.
Conformably to our Constitutions^ each
house of the Province is to contribute ac-
cording to its meanS;, to the support of the
Provincial House^ and Superiors should con-
sider it an obligation to give up all surplus
funds for that purpose.
By a decree of the Second General Chapter^
held in May, 1875, the use of all kinds of
spirituous liquors has been prohibited in the
Congregation, except in case of absolute
necessity, or when ordered by the physician.
Conformably to a decree of the Third Gen-
eral Chapter, held in 1881, our Sisters shall
abstain from attending any picnics except
little excursions to places at no great distance,
gotten up chiefly for their pupils, and at-
tended only by their pastors and Sister
Teachers, exclusive of everyone else.
They are likewise prohibited from taking
part in the pleasures of the day, as boat-rid-
ing, racing, swinging, and eating with the
pupils.
The use of watches is allowed to superiors
and nurses only, and in every case to be com-
munity property: hence, a watch may not
be taken from one house to another, but bo
left for the one who will take up the duty
86 MANUAL OF THE
that required its use. The use of silver
thimbles is permitted.
A small book is used for marking the re-
sult of the particular examen. This mark-
ing to be done at a signal given four min-
utes after the beginning of the examen^ the
remaining few minutes to be devoted to stir-
ring the soul to sorrow for failings and
thanksgiving for the help of God in this par-
ticular matter.
The General Chapter of 1908 unanimously
decreed that a Bourse be founded for the
General Government, the amount of this
Bourse to be raised by an annual assessment
on each Province, according to the number of
its professed members. The assessment is
fixed for the present, at three dollars a year
for each professed Sister.
The same General Assembly decided with
regard to the transferring of Sisters from one
Province to another, that we follow the cus-
tom of the older Orders and Congregations
in the Church, which is that members are
not called from one Province to another, ex-
cept for general offices or in case of special
need, and are returned to their respective
Provinces when the term of general office
is filled or the special work accomplished;
and that members asking to pass from one
Province to another must understand that
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 87
they will not be returned at their own re-
quest. Superiors will be expected to con-
sult the general good and to act accordingly.
The General Chapter of 1914 recom-
mended that our Holy Rule be read often
by every Sister. The general reading does
not excuse us from this ; and our love for our
passport to Heaven should incline us to con-
stant study of its every chapter. The Eule
obliges us to read the portion concerning our
respective employments ^^at least once a
week.^^
That the Sisters may become familiar with
the decrees of the General Chapters and the
customs of the Congregation it was decreed
in the General Assembly of 1881 that all be
read twice a year at conference or assemblies
of the Community and it is further recom-
mended that there be two or more copies of
the Manual of Customs^, according to size of
Community^ in each house that all the Sis-
ters may read some portion frequently.
In the various chapters of this manual the
way of fulfilling the obligations of Holy Rule
is clearly explained. There seems to be noth-
ing left for conjecture or misunderstanding.
Let us realize this and bring home to our
hearts the conviction that lack of observance
under such conditions would be singularly
unworthy of one in earnest about community
88 MANUAL OP THE
interests in which her personal salvation and
sanctifieation are so closely bound up — a
necessary part of a beautiful whole.
Let us take pride in our Constitutions and
the Customs which are their explanation and
application. Let us know them accurately
and practice them consistently. Let it be our
ambition to show in our lives that a thorough
knowledge of the Manual of Customs tends
materially to make faithful observers of the
Constitutions. Individual fidelity is essen-
tial always to corporate success.
May the mantle of our Father Most Ami-
able, dear St. Joseph, be always our protec-
tion.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 88a
DECREES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
OF THE GENERAL CHAPTER
HELD AT THE
MOTHER HOUSE MAY 18-22, 1920
SUMMARY OF DECREES
The Novices, after completing two years
of Novitiate, make profession of temporary
vows for three years instead of for one
year.
By special indult, those Sisters who make
temporary vows on March nineteenth make
profession of perpetual vows on August
fifteenth.
The Superior-General, or her Delegate,
is required to make the visitation of the
provinces every three years instead of every
two years as prescribed by the Constitu-
tions.
(The above decrees are now incorporated
in the Constitutions).
The Provincial of the St. Louis Province
and her Assistant are to reside at one of
our large houses in the city instead of at
the Mother-House.
The wearing of washable goods for habits
by the Sisters in our hospitals is prohibited.
Neither celluloid nor any other material
may be used instead of linen for guimpes,
cornets and bands.
88b MANUAL OF THE
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. All general permissions should be
asked with the monthly permissions.
2. Dispensations hold good for only one
year and must be renewed annually.
3. Prayers that are not of rule may
not be continued in Community for more
than one year.
4. Attention is called to the devout prac-
tice of bowing the head at the Gloria Patri
and at the Holy Name of Jesus.
5. If late for any of the spiritual exer-
cises, we recite at the close of the exercise
and with arms extended the Our Father
and Hail Mary three times.
6. The present method of collecting votes
for the General Chapter is according to the I
laws of the Church and is considered a
dignified method.
7. The Annual Statement shall be sent
in on July first instead of on January first
as heretofore.
8. Filled gold bridges for eye-glasses
may be used, but gold bows may not be
used unless these are found by physicians
to be absolutely necessary.
9. It is strongly recommended that an
effort be made to overcome immodesty in
dress, and that a uniform be adopted in the
school wherever possible.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 89
OBSERVANCES AND CUSTOMS
RELATING TO THE EXERCISES OF THE
DIFFERENT OFFICES OF
THE CONGREGATION
THE SUPERIOE-GENERAL
In compliance with a decision of the First
General Assembly, she convokes every six
years, at the most convenient time, the meet-
ing of a General Chapter, as ordered by the
Constitutions, and at which she presides.
This chapter, which cannot be prolonged
beyond ten days, treats of the general affairs
of the Congregation, and the correction of
abuses. The form for holding the same, being
approved by the Church, and followed by
assemblies of other religious orders, was, by
a special act of the First General Chapter,
held in 1869, unanimously adopted.
Conformably to a decision of the Second
General Chapter, held in 1875, the Superior-
General, in concert with her Council, may
provisionally appoint a General Counselor,
should that post become vacant during the
90 MANUAL 01* THE
interim of a General Chapter by deaths or by
the serious opposition of some prelate to the
removal of a Sister elected to that office.
In accordance with a decree of the Fourth
General Chapter^ held in 1887^ the Superior-
General is to hold a meeting with the Provin-
cial Superiors once a year^ in order to insure
a thorough understanding of the Constitu-
tions^ Customs and Decrees of General Chap-
ters^ as also to attain a greater uniformity in
the exact and faithful observance of them.
The Superior- General or Provincial can
receive a subject who applies from another
Community^ but it is reserved to the Supe-
rior-General to re-admit a Sister who once
left the Congregation. Should such a sub-
ject returning penitent be received again, she
must be willing to accept a penance propor-
tionate to the gravity of her fault and be de-
prived for a time of active and passive voice.
When she gives evidence of sincere humility,
she may be re-instated in her rights and priv-
ileges by the General Chapter.
THE MOTHER-ASSISTANT
She is chosen by the Mother-General with
the consent of her Council, from the number
of the counselors elected by the General
Chapter.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH ^ 91
She ranks after the Superior-General, both
at the Mother House and at other Houses
of the Congregation, and in her absence takes
her place in the discharge of all her official
duties.
She carefully endeavors to be united with
the Superior-General, and strives to fulfil
the duties of her position in such a manner
as to prove herself her aid and support in all
things.
In the event of the death or the resignation
of the Superior-General during her term of
office, the Mother- Assistant is to govern the
Congregation until the General Chapter for
Election, which must take place within three
months after the death of the Superior,
THE SUPEETORS-PEOVINCIAL
They are appointed to their office by the
Mother- General and her Council. Their au-
thority extends to all the houses in their
Province, which they govern under the au-
thority of the Superior-General.
According to a declaration of the First
General Chapter, they, with their respective
Councils are, however, to be left free to trans-
act the affairs of their Province. The fol-
lowing are the points concerning which they
are expected to consult the Mother-General :
92 ^ MANUAL OF THE
1. — Making new foundations.
2. — Closing establishments and schools al-
ready in operation.
3. — The acquisition and disposition of real
estate.
4. — The erection of buildings. #
5. — The removal of officers appointed by
the Mother-General and her Council.
6. — The sending of Sisters to collect.
7. — Applications to the Holy See for dis-
pensations.
They hold every year, as decreed in the
Fourth General Chapter, an assembly of all
the Local Superiors in their Province, to
confer with them on the means of advancing
God's greater glory and the good of the In-
stitute, by the promotion of a more uniform
and faithful observance of the Constitutions,
approved customs and decrees of the General
Chapters.
They insist in these meetings, especially on
the means of maintaining and strengthening
the bonds of union and charity between
Superiors and subjects^ and among the Sis-
ters themselves; the obligations of the vow
of poverty, the advantage and love of labor;
the love of silence^ prayer, and an interior
spirit; the necessity of the observance of re-
ligious decorum and enclosure equally bind-
ing on all religious; but especially do they
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 93
warn against the dangers arising from a free
and too frequent intercourse with externs^,
either ecclesiastic or secular.
The Superiors-Provincial are expected to
send, towards the close of each 3^ear, to the
Mother- General, a statement of the general
condition and affairs of their Province, em-
bracing their schools, with number of pupils ;
sodalities and their membership, orphanages
and hospitals, with number of inmates in
each, works of zeal and charity in operation^
and their success; number and condition of
Communities under their jurisdiction, to-
gether with an account sheet of the financial
state of their Province. They should, like-
wise, send the names of all the Sisters pro-
fessed during the year, giving date of birth^
entrance into religion, reception, profession,
together with secular name, place of birth,
names of parents, etc., that the same may be
entered on the Eegister of the Congregation.
In their annual visits to the houses under
their authority, they are strongly advised to
demand an accurate account from the Supe-
rior concerning all the points especially
recommended and enjoined at the time of the
general meeting.
The Superiors-Provincial should consider
it of the utmost importance for the success of
their government to be well united with the
94 MANUAL OF THE
Superior-General, and to gladly subject all
their proceedings to her counsel and direc-
tion.
Should any difficulty arise in their Prov-
ince which they cannot adjust, they will re-
fer the same to the Mother-General.
THE COUNCILORS
The General Chapter of 1908 decreed that
the General Councilors of the Congregation
rank after the Superior-General in the
Mother House and next to the local Superior
in all other houses.
The Councilors assist the Superiors by
their advice in the direction of the Congrega-
tion, or Province, in all that regards dis-
cipline and the observance of the Constitu-
tions.
They are careful to understand well, the
subjects, or questions proposed to them in
Council, before giving an opinion. They tell
freely what they think ; and, in doing so, they
are not to be influenced by the consideration
that the Superior, or other members of the
Council may think to the contrary.
If, according to their duty, they think
themselves obliged to represent certain seri-
ous irregularities at the meeting of the Coun-
cil, they do not trouble themselves if a good
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 95
effect has not been produced ; nor do they im-
portune the Superior afterwards^, having done
their duty in Council.
They bear in mind that all matters of
Council^ and all discussions upon them^ must
be kept strictly private.
The violation of this rule is sufficient to
exclude one forever from the Council^ as all
Councilors must consider themselves bound
by a formal precept of obedience to observe
silence on matters connected with the Coun-
cil.
The Councilors of each Province send^ con-
formably to a decision of the First General
Chapter, held in 1869, every six months, con-
sultorial letters to the Superior-General, in
which each separately, and according to her
knowledge, gives a conscientious statement
on the following points :
1. The reception of Novices and their in-
struction.
2. The instruction of junior Sisters and
their progress in virtue.
3. The progress in the spiritual life, and
love of prayer of the senior Sisters.
4. The domestic discipline, and the observ-
ance of Vows and Eules.
5. The works of charity among the poor,
sick, and orphans.
96 MANUAL OP THE
6. The direction of schools and academies^
and the progress of the pupils.
7. The government of Superiors^ whether
it be mild^ exact, spiritual, or the contrary.
8. The temporal affairs, the income, the
debts.
9. The Sister companion in the parlor^ or
abroad ; the intercourse with externs ; whether
the Eule is observed in this respect?
10. Whether scandal and offence have been
given by any Sister, and what remedies have
been applied? Whether peace and benevo-
lence are preserved with externs?
11. Whether consultations have been held
at stated times, and whether the ordinances
of Superiors have been executed.
12. Whether the common life and Poverty
be carefully observed in food, clothing, etc.
THE LOCAL SUPEEIOES
They are appointed by the Mother-General
and her Council, and are charged with the
government of the House assigned to them.
They are, therefore, obliged to enforce the ob-
servance of the Constitutions and approved
Customs of the Community.
Considering that one day they shall all be
judged by the measure of their fidelity in the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 97
observance of our Constitutions^ and the con-
scientious discharge of the duties of their
position, Superiors should zealously apply
themselves to study and to understand well
all their sacred obligations and endeavor to
regulate their conduct by the Eules laid down
for them. Towards the close of each year,
they are expected to send a written statement
of the financial condition of their house, its
income, its debts, to the Provincial on whom
they depend.
They will also send towards the close of
each year, to the Provincial House, an ex-
act statement of the condition of their Com-
munities, schools, and the number of pupils
in each, number of Sisters, how employed;
state of sodalities and their membership;
works of zeal and charity attended to by the
Sisters during the year, and their success;
the obstacles they have had to encounter,
and those likely to oppose them in the near
future.
The Superiors of hospitals and orphan-
ages send in a similar account in reference to
the work in which they are engaged.
These statements will enable the Superior
Provincial to form some idea of the actual
wants of each House, and aid her in making
a suitable distribution of Sisters for the com-
ing year.
98 MANUAL OF THE
They zealously watch over the observance
of the Vow of Poverty in all its details^ and
carefully guard against the insinuations of a
worldly spirit^ which^ entering frequently by
a too free and unnecessary intercourse with
externs, is calculated to work great disorder
among religious^, and bring ruin on religious
houses.
Hence^ the General Chapter of 1887 urged
it as a most serious obligation on Superiors
to exercise a prudent vigilance over the cor-
respondence, as well as the personal inter-
course of the Sisters with externs — secular
or ecclesiastic — in their own houses, or
abroad, as well as with the Sisters of the
Institute, and to permit no letters to be writ-
ten that are not called for by necessity or
charity.
Conformably to our Constitutions, Local
Superiors are authorized to permit the Sis-
ters to make journeys which will enable them
to return home the same day. It is always
to be understood, however, that these jour-
neys, to be lawful, must be dictated only by
necessity, obedience or charity. They should
never be undertaken for pleasure.
To guard against exceeding the limits of
their authority, they should endeavor to have
a good understanding with their immediate
Superior^ and learn from her how far they
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 99
can go. As circumstances which call for
permissions and dispensations are variable
with timC;, they should renew them at least
once a year.
Conformably to an explanation of the
First General Assembly^ the Superior of a
Community of at least twelve members
ought to have an Assistant, Procuratrix, &c.
A Community of twenty-five, being a large
Community, should have an Assistant-Pro-
curatrix and other officers as circumstances
may require.
Superiors may propose to the Mother-Pro-
vincial and her Council, the Sisters whom
they think most capable of filling the office
in question.
They are careful to execute, and see ex-
ecuted by their Community, what has been
enjoined and recommended at the time of
the annual meeting of Superiors, or of the
Superior's visit to their houses.
Superiors should endeavor, by their
humility, affability, charity, love of prayer
and of the interior spirit, to gain the confi-
dence of the Sisters, in order to win them to
Christ, our only Good. Thus they will draw
down on themselves and Community the
benediction of Heaven, insuring a happy suc-
cess to their government and labors under-
takeii for God.
100 MANUAL OF THE
THE SISTEE-ASSISTANTS
Appointed by the Superior-General and
her Council^ they assist the Superior in the
management of the exterior affairs of the
Community. They are, therefore, in virtue
of their office, obliged to a general superin-
tendence of the various charges and employ-
ments in the house.
They see that the subordinate officers per-
form their duties at appointed times, and in
an exact and orderly manner.
That the exterior rules, such as silence,
modesty and decorum be strictly complied
with.
That poverty, cleanliness and good order
be everywhere observed.
Owing to their vigilance, every person in
the house — children, visitors, employees —
are charitably and thoughtfully provided for,
and the sick carefully and affectionately
treated.
They endeavor to exercise a delicate atten-
tion to the needs of the Superior, should the
latter be inclined to neglect her bodily wants,
and, if necessary, make the fact known to
higher Superiors, that they may apply a
remedy.
They take care to have all the out-door
keys properly labeled, and provide two keys
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
101
for all the principal places in the house^ of
which one is kept by the Assistant^ the other^
by the Sister in charge of the place.
When workmen are to be employed in any
part of the house, the Assistant gives no-
tice to the Sister who has charge of the par-
ticular place.
She sees that light and fuel are not wasted,
and that articles of furniture are not re-
moved from their places without her knowl-
edge.
If any Sister is removed from an office or
employment, the Sister-Assistant takes care
to charitably teach her successor how to per-
form the duties of her charge, according to
the Eules and approved Customs.
Every day, at an appointed hour, the As-
sistant applies to the Superior for any di-
rections regarding her office or for obtaining
her sanction for the necessary repairs.
In case of sickness or absence, the Assist-
ant replaces the Superior in the discharge
of all her official duties, and, according to a
decision of the First General Chapter, she
also holds the conferences and chapters of
the Community if the absence of the Supe-
rior extends to three weeks or longer.
The Assistant of the Provincial ranks next
to her at the Provincial House, but in Mis-
sion Houses next to the Superior of the house
102 MANUAL OF THE
she visits: In general assemblies the Pro-
vincial Assistants rank after the Provincials.
The Sister-Assistant in Local Houses al-
ways takes her rank next to the Superior of
the House when no other Superiors are pres-
ent.
In houses of education^ orphan asylums
and hospitals^ the Sister-Assistants give
special attention to the wants of the children^
patients and employees^ in all that regards
their exterior well-being, and they see that
great cleanliness, good order and decorum be
generally observed throughout these estab-
lishments.
To aid Superiors to make a suitable choice
in the selection of a Sister-Assistant, the
General Chapter, held in 1869, has suggested
to them to consult the following qualifica-
tions :
1. Good sense and sound judgment to en-
able her to understand well the duties of her
position.
2. Health of body and strength of mind to
assist her in supporting the hardships and
trials connected with her office.
3. Good example, by the practice of every
virtue, especially, humility, patience, char-
ity, regularity and self-sacrifice.
4. Love of silence, recollection and inte-
rior life.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
103
5. Union of will and action with her Supe-
rior submitting all her proceedings to her
advice and direction.
THE PEOCUEATEIX
The Procuratrix aids the Superior in the
administration of the temporalities.
She strives to apply herself faithfully to
this duty^ so that the Superior, not being
over-burdened by temporal cares^ may the
more easily devote herself to the spiritual
government of the house.
The Assistant, Sacristan, Dispenser, and
other officials, endeavor to foresee what may
be required, so as to avoid giving unneces-
sary trouble to the Procuratrix by applying
to her at unseasonable times; and, she, on
her part, does her utmost to accommodate
the Sisters by having their commissions ex-
ecuted as soon as possible.
Previous to sending for the things to the
stores, she notes down in her pass-book a list
of the goods required.
In the weekly, monthly, and annual ac-
counts, she separates the provisions from
sundries, and on the appointed day of the
month, she presents her books to the Supe-
rior and her Council.
104 MANUAL OF THE
Besides the current account books^ she also
keeps one in which are entered :
1. The particulars and total amount of
Community property^ how invested^ and in
what names.
2. The annual income^, when due, and
when it should be applied for.
3. A list of all the important papers of the
house, as deeds, leases, etc. When any of
these are sent out of the house, an accurate
entry should be made, with the date and the
name of the party to whom they are sent, and
the Procuratrix sees that they are returned
in due time.
4. The liabilities of the house, such as
rents, salaries, etc.
5. The inventory of all that is purchased
for the different offices, with date.
Should the duties of this office prove too
much for one Sister, she may have one, or
several assistants, who, in their work, will
follow her direction.
THE SECRETAEY
She should be animated with great zeal for
the good of the Congregation, and endeavor
to regulate her conduct by the rules laid
down for her in the Constitutions, which she
should frequently read and attentively study
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 105
in order to fulfil her duties with prudence
and accuracy.
In addition^ it would be desirable that she
should keep a book in which to register all
the letters of importance written by the
Superior or by her orders. This is to be the
''Booh of Correspondence/' She also keeps
a memorandum in which she notes each day
the orders of the Superior.
Besides assisting the Superior in her cor-
respondence^ she also keeps the annals of the
House, and she copies into the ''Chronicles
of the Congregation' any edifying or re-
markable occurrence in the Mission Houses^
of which the Local Superiors may have writ-
ten an account.
It is desirable, for the convenience of the
Superior, that the Secretary keep a list of
all the Houses of the Congregation, and of
all the Mission Houses of her Province^, with
the names of the Sisters who live in them.
She likewise keeps the Eegister of the Con-
gregation, carefully entering each Professed
Sister^s name, age, date of entrance, recep-
tion, profession, etc.
It is also her duty to write a short sketch
of the life and edifying particulars of each
deceased Sister of the Congregation, together
with name, age of profession, and date of
death ; also the offices she may have held in
106 MANUAL OF THE
the Congregation. All to be carefully pre-
served in the archives of the Congregation.
MISTRESS OP NOVICES
Is appointed by the Mother-General and
her Council, and according to the decree of
Clement VIII., as explained in our Constitu-
tions, she ought to be thirty-five years of age.
She is charged with the immediate direction
of the postulants and novices, in order to lead
them to the perfection of their state.
She tries to bear in mind, that it is by her
care the Congregation is to be renewed and
perpetuated, that it is by her teaching that
the religious spirit is kept alive, regenerated
and transmitted from one to another, of the
different generations which succeed each
other in the Community.
She considers that the subjects confided to
her care are persons who have received from
God, various gifts and in unequal measure,
who present to the eye a thousand different
shades of temperament^ character and in-
clinations, who cannot be led to the desired
end by the same way and in a similar space
of time ; who, in fine, cannot be raised to the
same degree of perfection.
She, therefore, teaches them to know them-
selves, points out the means to make them
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 107
triumph over their passions^, and shows them
how to practice true religious virtue.
She carefully explains to the novices all
the Eules and Constitutions and the Evan-
gelical Counsels of which the vows of re-
ligion are the expression.
She tries to make them understand what
is mean and groveling in the life of the
senses^ and shows them that true greatness,
nobility and consolation are to be found in
the spiritual and interior life to which the
Daughters of St. Joseph must aspire if
they wish to become worthy of their call-
ing.
She manifests the greatest charity towards
the most needy of her children, those most
subject to defects and weaknesses, as these
will merit for her a more brilliant crown.
She exercises a constant vigilance over the
Novitiate and applies herself to obtain a per-
fect knowledge of all that passes therein.
She carefully examines whether the Eule
be well observed, whether charity and peace
reign there, and whether each inmate acquits
herself of her duties with fidelity and
promptitude.
iVt regular intervals she arranges a sched-
ule of the novices and postulants who are to
assist and serve in the refectory, kitchen,
laundry and other charges of the house.
108 MANUAL OF THE
Slie^ likewise^ appoints the readers for the
refectory.
Every months she causes the Manual of the
Novitiate to be read through^ reading a cer-
tain part thereof every week.
She holds a general conference every Sun-
day^ wherein she explains part of the Consti-
tutions^ or treats of points of religious disci-
pline mentioned in the '^^Manual of Decrees
and Customs.'^
She also instructs the novices on points of
Christian Doctrine^, especially on the worthy
reception of the sacraments of penance and
the Holy Eucharist^ and sees that they are
taught the proper method of imparting re-
ligious instruction to children.
She should have the novices recite the
Catechism by questioning and answering one
another.
On four or five days in the week^ she as-
sembles all the novices of the first year at
some convenient time in the day^ and hears
them recite some of the Maxims of Perfec-
tion^ which she afterwards explains and
points out to them how to reduce them to
practice.
She requires of the novices of the second
year to be models of exactitude in all the
duties of the Novitiate, especially in the ob-
servance of silence/ humility and charity.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 100
She sees that they are prompt to their hours
of clasS;, and appoints a special time in which
to prepare their lessons.
In order that the novices may conceive a
proper idea of what is required of them here-
after^ the Mistress will do well to explain
every six months^, in public, the following
points, which each one reads, and after re-
flection, signs, if actually determined to con-
form to them :
1. Am I willing to be obedient in all
things appertaining to my vocation, to every
Superior lawfully appointed, to every sub-
ordinate officer acting in the Superior's
name, and submit to any penance imposed
on me?
2. Am I content to live without any privi-
lege during my whole life, even though I
might do great things for the Congregation ?
3. Am I ready to serve God with perfect
indifference as to my whereabouts, in any
house of the Congregation, subject to any
Superior, in any degree, office, duty, work or
study, as it may seem best to the Superior to
employ me ?
4. Have I reason to believe myself suffi-
ciently strong in mind and body to perform
the duties required of a Sister of St. Joseph ?
I answer all these questions in the affirma-
tive, in witness whereof I sign my name, .
110 MANUAL OF THE
Where the novices and postulants are nu-
merous^ the Mistress may be aided by an As-
sistant whose duty it would be to replace her
when needed^ to superintend the external
duties of the Kovitiate and to instruct the
novices how to perform them.
THE SISTEE TEACHEES
The rules laid down in the Constitutions
for the guidance of the Sister teachers con-
tain much^ both to instruct and encourage
them in the discharge of their duty.
In view of the many souls daily lost
through the efforts of the evil one and the
influence of bad example^ those, whom our
Lord has so greatly favored as to permit to
share the labors of His Apostolate, should
zealously endeavor to work with Him, for
Him, and according to His spirit, for the
salvation of the ''little ones'' confided to
their care.
Eemembering that they are the favorites
of Heaven, the Sisters should be exceedingly
careful never to scandalize them. The
younger and more innocent the child, the
keener the sense of perception and apprecia-
tion of good and evil in their parents or
teachers.
While engaged in class, they should care-
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH HI
fully adhere to the directions given in the
^^Manual for the Use of our Schools/^ as far
as circumstances will permit.
They conscientiously prepare for their
classes by a diligent study of the subjects
they have to teach.
During the time of recreation they do not
allow their attention to be engrossed by indi-
viduals^ but extend their vigilance to all, by
seeing that the children Join in the general
games and pastimes.
They do not permit the children to treat
them with familiarity, neither do they accept
presents from them.
Looking upon inflicting corporal punish-
ment as something degrading in a religious,
our Sisters will never make use of it, save in
a case of the most extreme necessity, and
then only after having taken counsel of the
Principal of the school or of the Superior.
If, unfortunately, a case of this kind were
to present itself, the teacher should look upon
it as a conscientious duty to refrain from ad-
ministering punishment until her mind is
restored to tranquillity, that the culprit, see-
ing the absence of passion in her, may be the
better disposed to profit by it.
Any kind of punishment should never be
inflicted except with a view to a pupiFs
amendment.
112 MANUAL OF THE
The Sister Teachers will carefully refrain
from applying themselves to work of any
kind during their class hours^ giving their
undivided attention to the children com-
mitted to their care, in accordance v^dth the
injunctions laid down in the Manual.
As the most important of all studies is
that of our holy religion, the class duties of
each day begin with the prayers suggested in
the Manual, and the instruction in Christian
Doctrine prescribed therein is never omitted.
To show the importance attached to the
acquisition of religious knowledge, it is de-
sirable that at the annual distribution of
''rewards/' the prize for this subject be
superior to any other.
At the beginning of class sessions the
pupils shall be reminded of the presence of
God. The use of the aspiration ^^All for
Thee, 0 Sacred Heart of Jesus^^ is recom-
mended.
It is customary for the Sisters to accom-
pany their pupils to Mass, and to teach them
how to assist thereat religiously and de-
voutly. If the Pastor requests it, they also
teach them to say the Eosary during its cele-
bration, and they recite it with them.
In the absence of anyone capable of recit-
ing the Eosary in parish churches during
Mass, at times when such devotions are to be
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 113
publicly performed^ the Sisters may say the
Eosary for the congregation^ if requested to
do so by the Pastor.
In teaching the children to sing^ they show
in the selection of subjects a preference for
hymns which will serve to elevate their
minds and move their hearts to the love of
God, and of our Holy Eeligion.
Particular attention is to be paid to the
manner and general deportment of the
pupils.
SISTEES m OEPHAN ASYLUMS
The Sisters who are charged with the care
of orphans are engaged in a great work, and
should appreciate the privilege they enjoy.
This is the assurance of our Lord, Himself
— ^Whoever receiveth the least of My breth-
ren receiveth Me.^^ Let them rejoice, for
faith assures them that, in the persons of
the poor little orphans, they entertain and
serve our Infant Savior, Who will generously
reward their patience and self-sacrifice.
In their intercourse with the Sisters as-
sociated in their labors, as well as in their
entire conduct, they endeavor to be exceed-
ingly on their guard never to scandalize the
children, for it would be dreadful to think
that a Spouse of Jesus Christ should have
114 MANUAL OF THE
become a stumbling-block to these ''favorites
of Heaven/' so entirely depending on their
motherly care.
The frequent remembrance of the terrible
menace of our Lord^ "Beware of scandaliz-
ing any one of these little ones that believe
in Me, for verily I say unto you, it were bet-
ter for such a one that a millstone were
hanged about his neck, and he were drowned
in the depths of the sea/^ should inspire our
Sisters to walk in holy fear lest they should
come to deserve it.
Seeing how short the time for some of
those poor little ones is, in which to lay
a good foundation for their future welfare,
our Sisters will endeavor to do them all the
good in their power, by helping them in all
meekness and patience to correct their little
faults, by inspiring them with a love of vir-
tue, especially truth, candor, charity, kind-
ness, promptitude, a love of order and neat-
ness about their persons, in their work, their
apartments, etc. They will, in particular,
seek to inspire them with a love of labor and
diligence in its performance, encouraging
them thereto, from time to time, by little
rewards and honorable mention of their
name. They should be conscientiously ex-
act to their hours of class and ask the same
from the children. Besides teaching them
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
115
the common branches of useful knowledge,
they will instruct them thoroughly in their
Catechism^ and see that they understand well
the commandments of God and of the
Churchy the doctrine on the Sacraments, etc.,
giving special attention to the careful per-
formance of their prayers and devout as-
sistance at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
They seek to inspire them with a great and
tender devotion to the Blessed Virgin, to
St. Joseph and to the Holy Angels. They
teach them to have recourse to God and our
Blessed Mother in their little wants and
griefs, that they may do the same here-
after in occasions of special need and trou-
ble.
The girls should be taught to perfect
themselves in such handiwork as will best
fit them for their station in life, such as sew-
ing^ dress-making, mending, knitting, and
the various branches of housekeeping
Conformably to the spirit of our Constitu-
tions legislating on charity, our Sisters liv-
ing in Orphan Asylums, should keep an eye
on all their children, but especially on the
young girls who have been placed out in fam-
ilies. They will encourage them to return
from time to time, and endeavor by the live-
liest interest in their welfare, to win their
confidence, in order to be the better able to
116 MANUAL OF THE
shield them from the dangers to which some
of them may be exposed
Above all^ our Sisters should endeavor,
whilst teaching their little orphans useful
knowledge, to form at the same time their
manners, that they may be a credit to the
home. They, themselves, should be the liv-
ing examples for their children, especially
by the practice of silence, and interior recol-
lection, a spirit of kindness, patience and
exactitude to every part of their duty.
The Superiors of orphan asylums are care-
ful to keep a faithful record of all the chil-
dren received into the asylum, as the hap-
piness of some of their children for a life-
time may depend on it.
Whole families are sometimes scattered
over the country, without any hope of find-
ing one another through the carelessness
of the administrators of such institu-
tions.
SISTERS EMPLOYED m HOSPITALS
Those whom obedience has appointed to
serve our Lord in his suffering members
ought greatly to rejoice, since He assures us
in the Gospel that He receives as done to
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 117
Himself whatever we shall do for our neigh-
bor in a spirit of charity.
This assurance should be a subject of great
consolation and encouragement to our Sisters
who labor with such untiring devotion at
the bed-side of the sick and dying.
To fulfil the end of their calling they
should endeavor to love the interior life, and
give to prayer and recollection every moment
they may be able to spare from their exterior
duties. It is the interior spirit that en-
nobles and sanctifies their actions.
The reputation of good infirmarians or
successful nurses will profit nothing if they
are not animated with the true spirit of their
holy state.
The Superior should secure where it is
practicable competent male attendants to as-
sist sick men in the needs to which it is not
proper a religious should do duty. This will
make it easy to comply with the rule which
says^ ^^They shall not assist men in their
agony.^^
When a patient is brought to the Hospital
he or whoever accompanies him is prudently
questioned by the Mother Superior or the
Sister appointed by her^ as to his name^ age,
condition, religion, place of residence, rela-
tives, etc., that these items being entered
upon the records of the Hospital, the Sisters
118 MANUAL OP THE
may be able to render an account of him to
his family, if necessary.
He is afterwards placed under the care of
a Sister who, while ministering to his bodily
wants^ is very solicitous for the -welfare of
his soul. If he be in danger of death, she
sees that he is promptly provided with the
succors of holy religion.
If the patient be a protestant, his religious
convictions are respected, and he is not re-
fused the consolations which his conscience
may prompt him to ask. All will endeavor
to show him the greatest courtesy and kind-
ness.
If a Catholic, and hitherto negligent in the
practice of his religious duties, he is carefully
instructed and encouraged to return to the
faithful performance of the same, reminding
him that God^s fatherly providence frequently
visits negligent Christians with sickness, in
order to lead them back to the fold from
which they unfortunately strayed.
All possible care is taken to instruct the
patients in the truths of our holy religion, the
necessity of living up to one^s faith, and in
the practice of the virtues of a truly Christian
life.
If able to read, and permitted by the physi-
cian, such books are given and placed within
their reach as are calculated to instruct, to
SISTERS OP ST. JOSEPH 119
arouse to a sense of duty, and to encourage
to the practice of sincere virtue.
On Fridays, the Sisters do not serve meat
to the patients, except when ordered by the
physician.
Ever mindful that they are the Spouses of
our Lord, the Sisters are careful to follow
faithfully the regulations given under the
head of ^^Enclosure,^^ in order that they may
be helped and encouraged in the practice of
that ''interior life'' so necessary for persons
engaged in active, laborious duties, and so
proper for the children of St. Joseph.
THE INFIEMARIAN
The Infirmarian should look on her office
as being a great favor conferred upon her, and
the respect she feels for her Sisters, as the
Spouses of Christ, should be perceptible in her
words and manner.
If she wishes to receive the reward of her
charity to the sick she should be patient,
gentle and humble in her employment.
She tries to be exact in carrying out the
directions in regard to the remedies ordered,
either by the physician or by Superiors, and
does not, except by the doctor^s advice, give
any but ordinary remedies.
She gives timely notice to the Dispenser
120 MANUAL OF THE
and other officials, of anything she may re-
quire for the sick, and she sees that their
nourishment be well prepared and served.
It is her duty to see that cleanliness, regu-
larity and quiet be observed and maintained
in the Infirmary. She pays great attention
to proper ventilation, whilst at the same time
guarding the sick against draughts.
She sees that all medicines be labeled cor-
rectly and legibly, and dangerous ones kept
under lock and key.
Before administering any medicine, the
labels are always consulted.
After rising, she visits the sick, to see if
they are in need of anything, which she pro-
cures as soon as possible. After prayer she
repeats the visit, if necessary.
In the course of the day she pays particular
attention to the wants of the sick, and sees
that refreshments are brought them with
neatness and regularity, according to direc-
tions received.
All drinks, foot-baths, etc., are prepared
before night prayers, that the Infirmarian
may not be obliged to remain up longer than
the rest of the Community.
She takes care never to leave the Infirmary
without towels for wiping cups, spoons, etc. ;
also special towels, with basin and pitcher for
the physician. She keeps a set of dishes
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 121
purposely for the Infirmary, and, generally,
no others are used there.
The vessels employed for the sick are
washed after being used. Bottles, remnants
of food, etc., are not allowed to accumulate
in the room.
All linen used for the sick should be well
aired, and that which has been changed,
removed immediately.
Linen used by a Sister having a contagious
disease should not be mixed with any other.
It should iirst be put in cold water, and after-
wards washed apart.
Matches and candles, or a lamp, are always
kept in the Infirmary, in case they should be
required during the night.
Care is taken to close the doors gently on
entering or leaving the rooms of the sick.
A Sister is appointed to perform the spirit-
ual exercises with the sick in the Infirmarv.
SISTEES WHO VISIT THE SICK AXD
THE POOR
In all our large Communities, two Sisters
may be appointed to visit the sick and poor
as often as circumstances may require.
In smaller Communities, where everyone,
or nearly all, are generally employed in school.
122 MANUAL OF THE
they will not be expected to visit the sick, as
they could have no other time than that of
prayer and meditation to devote to it. Only
in case of necessity, and when urgently re-
quested by the Pastor, or some of their sick
pupils, may they deviate from this regulation.
Should any other call be addressed to the
Sisters, they may politely excuse themselves
by saying that their school duties will not
permit it.
When visiting the sick and poor, the Sis-
ters should make it their aim to study their
moral and intellectual, as well as their mate-
rial condition, in order the more easily to find
the necessary remedy.
It is the part of prudence to assist the sick
and poor in such a manner as to cause themi
to help themselves. For instance, we may
procure work for the poor, or point out to
them some profitable branch of industry to
which they might apply themselves. We
might instruct the sick as to what means to
make use of to recover health, and how to
guard against sickness for the future; for
many are poor and sick because of their
ignorance and want of tact. We should par-
ticularly encourage the poor who are timid
and bashful, for this is true charity.
Above all, we exhort the suffering members
of the mystical body of Christ, to a patient
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 123
endurance of their pains and trials^ in view of
the joys of eternity, encouraging them to a
humble trust in Providence, which trust is
always magnificently rewarded.
In their visits to the sick and poor, the
Sisters should endeavor to be guided by the
regulations laid do\\Ti for them in our Consti-
tutions, Part II., Chapter 6, and Part V.,
Chapters 13 and 14, which contain beautiful
instructions to direct them in the exercise of
the various works of charity and mercy.
THE SACEISTAJf
The Sacristan^s first and greatest duty is to
take care of the altar and sacred vessels, the
vestments, linen, etc., and to keep them with
great order and neatness.
In the Sacristy is to be kept a Bituale
Eomanum, also some authorized manual of
ceremonies, such as the Sacristan s Manual,
which may be referred to when required.
All things should be prepared in time for
Mass, Benediction, etc.
The Sacristan is careful to avoid doing any-
thing that could disturb the Sisters during
the time of prayer, or office.
Two wax candles are lighted during Mass ;
four at a Mass celebrated by a Bishop or Pre-
late; six during High Mass, and a greater
124 MANUAL OF THE
number on festivals. In lighting the candles,
the Sacristan commences with the one next
the tabernacle, on the Epistle side of the
Altar, and in extinguishing them, begins at
the same side but with the candle most dis-
tant from it
The lamp, before the Blessed Sacrament,
in which olive oil is to be burned, is ever
carefully attended to ; and, that our Lord may
never be left without a light, a second lamp
with kerosene is kept near, to light at night.
Corporals and Purificators are never
touched with uncovered hands, after having
been used at the Holy Sacrifice, without
special permission. They are washed by the
Priest at the commencement of each month;
and when they are so worn as to be no longer
fit for use^ they are burned, and the ashes
thrown into the ''Sacrarium/'
A Corporal that has been used at Mass is
not carried, except in a Burse, nor placed on
the Throne of Exposition for Benediction.
A Corporal and two lighted candles are to
be left on the Altar when the Blessed Sacra-
ment is to be removed.
Candles are lighted on the Altar of the
Blessed Virgin during Mass on all her feasts,
during the month of May, and on all Satur-
days throughout the year; likewise, on St.
Joseph^s Altar on every Wednesday of the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
125
year, and all during the month of March.
The wicks of candles are carefully attended
to before being lighted, and, if necessary,
lightly touched with turpentine.
Care is taken of the pieces of candles and
refuse of wax, which are melted and made
into candles again.
The Sacristy is never to be without Holy
Water. It is desirable to keep it in a large
earthen vessel with a cover, so as to preserve
it from dust, etc. ; from it all the fonts in the
house may be supplied.
The Aspersory is carefully dried after being
used, and placed near the Holy Water Vase.
The lavatory, in the Sacristy, is neatly kept
and clean towels placed near it.
The altars and statues are covered while
the Chapel is being swept.
When any festival, or fast day occurs
within the week, the Sacristan should give
notice of it in writing to the reader at table
on the previous Sunday, that she may an-
nounce it in the refectory ; likewise of the
anniversaries of the deceased Sisters and
benefactors.
This last regulation has reference especi-
ally to ISTovitiate Houses.
She keeps a book wherein to enter the
names and date of death of the deceased Sis-
ters and benefactors.
126 MANUAL OF THE
THE EEADER
At the end of the Benedicite at meals^ the
Eeader inclines with great reverence towards
the Superior and says : ''Jube Domina hene-
diceref
When all are seated she begins to read^ and
she endeavors to do so in a distinct and audi-
ble manner.
She stands whilst reading the Epistle and
Gospel;, the Martyrology, the Maxims and the
Chapter in the Constitutions; also^ when an-
nouncing the subject of the reading.
She is particularly careful to mark the book
when she concludes.
When the signal is given for the reading to
terminate^ she replaces the book and says:
"Tu autem Domine^ miserere nobis/^ to which
all answer: "Deo gratias!'^ She then re-
tires quietly to her place. Some time before
meals^ the Preceptress of readers at table
marks the books, and the appointed Sisters
prepare the subject they have to read, so as
to avoid mistakes, and if they make any, they
pay attention to the correction made by the
Preceptress.
Every day at breakfast, the Martyrology is
read, with the consideration of the Saint of
the day.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 127
At dinner^ continuation of the lives of the
Saints or some spiritual book.
At supper a spiritual book^ as at dinner^
is read; then^ towards the end of the meal, a
chapter from the Constitutions is read on
Fridays and Sundays^, also on feast days that
are days of recreation.
Every Saturday the Epistle and the Gospel
of the day following are read during supper ;
but throughout Lent and Advent they are
read every day.
In selecting the reading for table, we should
endeavor to be guided by the spirit of the
Church in her seasons of devotion.
The books chosen for the purpose should be
calculated to promote in us the love and
esteem of our holy vocation and, whilst tend-
ing to excite our interest and devotion, should
move us to the practice of those virtues which
are most requisite in our profession.
FOEM OF ANNOUNCEMENT IN THE
REFECTORY
At the conclusion of the reading, the anni-
versaries of the Sisters are announced by one
of the readers, who reads loudly and distinctly
as follows :
^To-morrow will be the anniversarv of the
128 MANUAL OF THE
death of our dear Sister N. N., or Mother N".
N. May she rest in peace/^ To which all
answer^ ^^Amen/^
The anniversaries of benefactors are an-
nounced in the same manner: "To-morrow
will be the anniversary of the death of our
benefactor (or benefactress ), N. N/^
Holy-days and fast days are announced by
the reader on the previous Sunday^ as follows :
"Next ^ being the feast of , will be
a holy-day of obligation. Next ^ being
the eve of the feast^ will be a day of fast and
abstinence/^
Or: "This being Ember Week, next Wed-
nesday, Friday and Saturday will be days of
fast and abstinence/^
The reader stands while making the an-
nouncements in the Eefectory.
THE VISITOES
At half -past eight o^clock p. m., the two
Sisters appointed by the Superior visit every
part of the house.
They examine the wnidows and outer doors,
and see that they are properly fastened.
They see that fire-places, stoves and fur-
naces be well secured, and that the lights be
carefully extinguished in places where they
are not needed during the night.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 129
They carefully avoid making noise in open-
ing and closing the doors of the rooms they
visit.
When everything is attended to as directed,
they place the keys in the Superior's room and
retire as soon as possible.
In large houses where the duty of visitors
has to be divided, a list of the places to be
visited may be written for each, so that they
may not be obliged to disturb the Community
by remaining up longer than the appointed
time.
They also see that the lights in the different
dormitories of the religious be extinguished
at the proper time, and acquaint the Superior
with any violations of Eule, if repeated.
THOSE WHO TRAVEL
When obliged to travel, we should visit the
Blessed Sacrament before leaving the convent,
to ask the Divine aid and protection. It
would be well also to recite the Itinerary
prayers of the church as found in our Form-
ulary that surrounded by such aids our
journey may be prosperous ' and free from
accident.
On our journey, we endeavor to conduct
ourselves in such a manner as becomes the
Spouses of our Lord, and we do not enter into
130 MANUAL OF THE
conversation with our fellow-travelers^ except
through necf ssity^ or charity.
We are faithful to perform our spiritual
exercises at the time appointed or to antici-
pate as circumstances dictate.
On arriving at our destination, if it be in a
house of our Congregation, we inquire for the
Superior first, and present ourselves to her
as the children of obedience.
Propriety and politeness require that we do
not mix up with the Community before
having seen and paid our respects to the
Superior, or in her absence, to the Assistant,
or Senior Sister of the house.
During our stay, if only visiting, we must
fulfil the exercises, and conform to the cus-
toms of the house. The quality of simple
visitor does not dispense us from observing
the Eule, or confer upon us the privilege of
doing as we please.
We hold no correspondence, either by letter
or otherwise, without a special permission
from the Superior of the house to which we
belong, who would do well to notify the
Superior at whose house the visit is made,
that such permission was granted.
Necessity alone should compel us to remain
over night in any house save that of a relig-
ious Community, and always in one of our
own^ where such exist.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
131
THE SISTERS WHO TAKE CHARGE
OP VISITORS
The Sisters who are charged with the care
of visitors should endeavor to exercise an at-
tentive and cordial hospitality to them.
They should thoughtfully provide for their
little wants^ and endeavor to edify them by
their gentle and courteous manner and holy
conversation^ as becomes persons consecrated
to God.
They are especially careful to avoid giving
the news of the house or of entertaining the
visitors with the affairs of its individual
inmates ; neither do they willingly listen to a
relation of the news and scandals of the world.
The Sisters charged with this employment
are conscientiously obliged to see that the rule
of enclosure, as ordained by our Constitutions,
will be faithfully adhered to, and that the
visitors will not trespass on the apartments
reserved for the Sisters, such as the commu-
nity room, dormitory, refectory, and the corri-
dors leading to tham.
THE CALLER
The Caller rings the bell for all the Com-
munity exercises at the time appointed by
Rule.
132 MANUAL OF THE
It is customary to give the signal for the
spiritual exercises five minutes in advance
with the large bell. The small bell after-
wards announces the time to begin prayers.
The Caller gives fifteen strokes of the large
bell for Mass. and nine for the other spiritual
exercises. AVhen she rings for the Angelus,
she gives three strokes at each of the saluta-
tions, and in conclusion, she gives fifteen,
which may be done to remind us of the fi.fteen
principal mysteries of the life of our Blessed
Lord and His holy Mother.
She rings the small bell for retiring at 9 :45
p. M.
She frequently excites herself to gratitude
to God. for being chosen by obedience to share
in the office of angels, who call and incite men
to adore, love and give praise to God.
THE POETEESS
The Portress strives to edify all externs by
her courteous and religious deportment.
She tries to be cordial and gracious to vis-
itors, but avoids all familiarity and unneces-
sarv conversation.
She endeavors to be charitable, patient and
gentle towards the poor, never treating them
with contempt or harshness.
She is careful to answer the bell promptly.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
133
and when obliged to leave the door^ asks the
Superior to appoint a substitute.
The door must be kept locked as much as
possible^ and the key is never allowed to re-
main in the lock.
She does not give messages at unseasonable
timeS;, such as during the religious exercises,
meals, etc., unless the business admit of no
delay, or the condition of the person who calls
demands immediate attention.
If obliged to give a refusal in any especial
case, she does so politely and very respect-
fully, and she keeps inviolably secret from the
Sisters any messages that may have been left
for them.
She will find in the Eules laid down for her
in the Constitutions, ample instructions as to
the manner and spirit in which all her duties
ought to be performed.
THE EEFECTOEIAN
She studies to observe the gTeatest order
and cleanliness in everything relating to her
charge.
She sees that everything is put in its proper
place on the table, and after each meal she
puts all things in their proper places in a
neat, orderly manner.
On some convenient day in the week, every-
134 MANUAL OF THE
thing is removed from the pantries, closets or
cupboards, and these latter wiped out with a
damp cloth, or washed out if needed, and
dried thoroughly before replacing the articles.
Such articles as are used at table, viz., salt-
cellars, cruets and sugar-bowls are also
emptied and washed.
Table napkins are given to the Sisters once
a week. Table cloths are used on days of
general recreation.
All those who^ by necessary duties of obedi-
ence, or pressing works of charity, are pre-
vented from dining at the first table, go to the
second, which is spread immediately after
grace has been said.
The Eefectorian dines at the first table, so
as to be free to superintend the work to be
done afterwards.
THE SEEVEE AT TABLE
Let her serve the Community with the same
dispositions and intentions as if she were
waiting on the Holy Family at Nazareth, or
on our Lord and His Apostles when seated
at table in the house of Martha.
By imitating the diligence, the thoughtful
attention, and the loving and provident care
of this blessed woman in the exercise of her
SISTKRS OF ST. JOSEPH 135
hospitality towards Jesus, the server will
merit to share also in her reward.
She endeavors to procure promptly what is
to be served at table, and sees that each Sis-
ter is suitably provided with whatever she
needs.
When not actually engaged in serving, after
the first attentions have been given, she re-
mains near^ so as to have an eye on the table,
and to supply things when wanted.
Neatness requires that dish-covers, when
removed from table, should be carried turned
upwards, and a tray should be held under
knives, forks, and spoons when taken off the
table, after having been used.
It is customary for each Sister to wash her
own dishes, after which they are replaced on
the table.
The Server gives notice to the Eefectorian
of any Sisters who may be absent from a meal,
so that a portion may be kept warm for them.
THE KEEPEE OP THE WAEDEOBE
She takes care of the garments, linen, and
whatever belongs to it, which, as things be-
longing to the poor of Christ, she keeps with
great diligence.
On entering upon her charge, she makes a
memorandum of all the articles committed to
136 MANUAL OF THE
her care, and marks them separately, so that
at the Superior's demand she may be able to
give an account of her office.
When any garments need to be repaired, she
takes care to have it attended to ; as to others
that she may find useless, she takes them to
the Superior to have them disposed of as she
thinks proper.
She superintends the making of the habits,
veils, etc., and sees that all are made accord-
ing to the prescribed customs. She provides
the Sisters with whatever is necessary, and
when there is need of anything, she gives
timely notice to the Superior for a supply.
The linen for the use of the Eef ectory,
Kitchen, and other offices, is given out by
count, and received back in the same manner.
She distributes to the Sisters during the
week as follows :
Two and in some localities three sets of
linen, one day and one night cap, one towel
and one neckerchief. Sheets, pillow covers
and night-dresses are given every two weeks.
Wearing apparel, etc., is marked with the
number of the Sister for whose use the arti-
cles are allowed.
House linen is to be marked, S. J., adding
the name of the House and the locality.
In large Communities the keeper of the
wardrobe may have one or two assistants.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 137
THE DISPENSER
She takes care of all that concerns the
Eefectory, Kitchen^ and Store-rooms, and of
whatever she has in her charge. If anything
necessary be wanting, she informs the Procu-
ratrix, that it may be provided in time.
She ascertains from the Superior and As-
sistant, what she is to give for the sick.
If she have one or more Assistants, she sees
that they do their duty, and does not permit
them to give anything away without her con-
sent.
She gives cordially and generously to the
Sister in charge of the kitchen and provides
the Infirmarian with what she may need for
the sick or suffering members of the Com-
munity.
All vessels belonging to her charge are kept
clean and in good repair.
THE COOK
She tries to perform her duties without
haste, and with tranquillity of mind, which
will enable her to frequently raise her mind to
God and keep herself in His presence.
She studies cleanliness, endeavoring to
observe it in all things appertaining to her
138 MANUAL OF THE
office^ as well with regard to herself as to those
associated with her.
She endeavors to have the meals ready at
the appointed times.
She prepares no particular dishes for any-
one without being duly authorized by obedi-
ence^ nor does she allow the same to be done
by anyone, except the Infirmarian, whom she
should especially assist, so as to provide all
necessary comfort or refreshment for the sick.
She should particularly see that the Sister
who prepares the meals for the sick, does so
in a becoming manner.
The poor applying for food are never re-
pulsed, for who knows but our Lord may hide
Himself under the garb of a poor beggar?
At all events, He receives as done to Himself
whatsoever we do for the needy.
On some convenient day in the week, all
utensils belonging to her , charge are thor-
oughly cleaned and polished, and the pantries
and cupboards properly washed and dried.
She keeps an account of the articles belong-
ing to her charge, and in case anything be
wanting, she gives notice to the Assistant.
She endeavors to be economical in regard to
the use of fuel and of all things that fall
under her care.
She is conscientiously obliged to see that
good order and silence are observed in the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 139
Kitchen^ and will inform the Assistant of any
cause of disorder therein^ or if any articles
are removed from it.
THE BAKER
The Sister who is charged with this employ-
ment should endeavor to perform it in an
interior spirit^ remembering the True Bread
which for love of us came down from Heaven.
Frequently recalling to mind that she
shares with our Blessed Mother in the holy
house of Nazareth the office of preparing
bread for the table of the Holy Family, she
rejoices in thus being able to imitate her.
She has a special care to see that Poverty is
not violated in her department, either in the
care of the flour or in cutting and caring for
the bread after its removal from the table.
Above all, she endeavors to observe great
cleanliness and neatness. If anything is out
of order or needed in her charge, she notifies
the Assistant, that the same may be repaired
or provided for in proper time.
THE SISTEE CHAEGED TO SUPEEIN-
TEND THE LAUNDEY
She endeavors to fulfill the duties of her
employment with great purity of intention
140 MANUAL OF THE
and in the spirit of recollection and prayer^
that it may prove an acceptable service in the
eyes of our Divine Master.
With a view to guard herself and those
associated with her from offending against
Poverty^, she sees that all the articles brought
into the Laundry are properly cared for, and
after having been washed clean, are neatly
folded, leaving name, number or Community
mark on the outside. Any articles that are
torn or otherwise damaged should be folded in
such a manner that the injured part will be
on the outside, that she whose duty it is to see
to the repairing thereof, may not be obliged to
unfold them again.
As the charge is frequently very trying,
owing partly to the nature of the work, as well
as to lack of experience, or inaptitude in those
working with her, she will endeavor to prac-
tice patience and that meekness and gentle-
ness of manner so frequently and forcibly
inculated by our Lord.
For the sake of Him who bears so patiently
with our ignorance, and short-comings, the
Laundress will, with great kindness, teach her
companions the little methods by which the
work may be done with economy and dispatch,
and the Sisters, on their part, ought to be
very obedient to her directions in order to
draw God^s blessing on their labors.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 141
No community clothing is starched but the
linen.
The underclothing of the community, and
night dresseS;, are not ironed, but neatly
folded and pressed.
'No Sister bestows special attention on her
own clothing in the Laundry, without a par-
ticular permission from the Superior or
Assistant.
No one is permitted to appropriate any arti-
cle of community clothing before it has been
brought to the Sister in charge of the ward-
robe^ as such an act would be contrary to
both obedience and poverty.
142 MANUAL OF THE
THE NOVITIATE
The Novitiate is the time of probation;
during its period of two 3^ears the novice tries
her new state^ and the Commimity's duty is
to ascertain whether she is a fit subject^ or
not, for the Congregation.
When a young woman presents herself to be
admitted as a postulant, she is, conformably
to our Constitutions, examined upon her
motives for entering, the length of time she
has been thinking of it, her health, age, educa-
tion, aptitude for the Congregation, her de-
termination to conform to the practices of the
religious life ; also her natural disposition, the
character and reputation of her family, par-
ticularly if there be insanity in it.
Should she appear to have the necessary
qualifications, she ought to be encouraged, but
it is advisable to try her for some time before
admitting her, so as to make sure of her voca-
tion.
Our Holy Pontiff, Pius IX., in his decree
concerning the admission of subjects, says:
^^The manners, qualities, etc., of those who
apply for admission, must be investigated.
It must be known what intention and spirit
induced them to embrace the religious state,
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 143
in order that onl}^ those be received who are
qualified according to God^s will.
^^To restore religious discipline in Com-
munities where it has fallen away^ or to pre-
serve it where it still exists^ there is nothing
more useful than to take the greatest care in
admitting novices to the Order and Profes-
sion^ in order that only those be admitted who
are called by Divine vocation^ endowed with
good habits and qualities^ who desire to serve
God and to escape the dangers of the world;
those who^ by example as well as by deed,
are apt to advance the spiritual welfare of
their neighbors according to the regulations
of their Communities. The weal or woe of
religious Communities depends indeed on the
novices, for they are the seeds of the Order,
they are the new vines renewing the vineyard
of the Lord. But if these seeds and saplings
are infected, bad fruit only can be gathered.
Therefore the Eoman Pontiffs, especially Six-
tus v., Clement VIII., Innocent X. and Inno-
cent XII., have issued most salutary decrees,
and enacted laws to be observed in admitting
novices.^^
And Pope Nicholas III. says: ^Those
only should be admitted who are likely to
become useful members, a profit to themselves
by their meritorious life, and an edification to
others by their good example/^
144 MANUAL OF THE
A great Saint and Superior of an eminent
religious Order says: ^^It is not to our ad-
v^antage^ nor to that of the Church, to admit
all who desire to enter. Not to onrs, because
we cannot make use of all classes of people.
Those of feeble health could not perform the
many and severe duties the religious state im-
poses on them. It is not to the advantage of
the Church, for religious Orders have been
instituted for the edification of the faithful,
and if unfit subjects are received, they will
give scandal, break up religious discipline and
hinder others from advancing in virtue/'
The candidates for admission ought to be
examined physically and morally; physically
because the Convent is not an hospital where
persons come to be cured and cared for bodily.
On the contrary, those who seek admittance
should not only be willing, but also able to
bear the diverse hardships of the religious life,
such as teaching, nursing the sick, manual
work, prayer, meditation, the hardships of
poverty and privation
To receive those who have to start with dis-
pensations would be against justice and pru-
dence; for the Community ought not to be
burthened with incapable members, nor would
it be right to expose such persons to the
humiliations naturally arising from their in-
ability to do like the rest.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
145
In regard to the second it must be remem-
bered that no absolute^ but only a moral
certainty can be arrived at by examining
the exterior conduct of a postulant or nov-
ice.
If she is faithful in the discharge of her
duties^ modest in conversation^ cautious in her
speech^ devout in presence of the Most Blessed
Sacrament^ assiduous in prayer, simple, un-
pretending and humble enough to receive cor-
rections in good part, such a postulant or
novice must be deemed worthy of reception or
profession.
But, as no religious, though advanced in
the spiritual life, is without faults, beginners
must not be expected to be perfect, but we
should distinguish the nature of their faults
which are committed through frailty, with
deliberation, or through malice.
1. Through frailty: a slight impatience,
lack of punctuality through forgetfulness, etc.
These do not render a novice unworthy of pro-
fession.
2. With deliberation: i. e., small faults,
but committed on purpose, as giving too much
liberty to the eyes, teasing and harsh treat-
ment of companions, eating and drinking
stealthily between meals, taking fruit from
the garden without permission, etc. These
faults, though small, yet deliberately commit-
146 MANUAL OF THE
ted, may become a serious obstacle if not
earnestly corrected.
3. Through malice: such as deliberate dis-
obedience, grievous injuries, spite and hatred,
detraction, murmurs and complaints, etc.
These indicate great corruption of heart, and
are an evidence of the dominion of evil habits,
and consequently debar her from profession.
As faults of character are seldom or never
corrected, those whose duty it is to pass judg-
ment on the postulants and novices stand
greatly in need of the light of the Holy Spirit,
to make a just discernment. On no account
ought they admit a real melancholy character,
or one that is intriguing, heartless, ungrate-
ful or selfish.
A great Saint and Master of the religious
life has said: ^^If you wish to keep your
Community in good standing, and raise it to
perfection, you must be slow to admit, ready
to dismiss, and most solicitous to educate the
young religious. ^^ It is, therefore, the Com-
munity's bounden duty to train them properly
and to test their vocation, lest it be burdened
with unworthy members. To effect this, the
Third General Chapter decreed that the first
year of novitiate be devoted exclusively to
acquire a knowledge of spiritual things, and
to study the science of the saints.
According to the decree of the Holy Pon-
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 147
tiff^ Clement VIII.^ the substance of which
will be given in different parts of this chapter,
the novices must be taught:
1. The importance and excellence of their
vocation.
2. The nature of the religious vows.
3. The necessity of observing the Eules
and Constitutions.
4. The practice of vocal and mental
prayer.
5. Mortification and custody of the senses.
6. Exercise of humility, charity, modesty,
silence, etc.
As explained and decreed in the First
General Assembly of the year 1869, the
Chapter held for the reception and profession
of subjects is to be composed of the following
members :
1. The Mother-General, or Provincials
with their respective Council.
2. The Mistress of Novices and her Assist-
ants.
3. Those occupied in teaching and train-
ing them.
In conformity with the decree of Clement
VIII.^ all intercourse between the professed
religious and novices is strictly prohibited.
Hence, the Sisters will carefully note the
following :
1. No professed Sister, under any pretext
148 MAN-UAL OF THE
whatever^ can enter the place of Novitiate.
This prohibition is the lock which debars
entrance to anyone not in duty bound to go
there^ the Superior^ the Mistress of NoviceS;,
the Assistants and their teachers alone being
excepted.
2. The professed are not permitted to
speak to the novices on meeting them through
the HousC;, or any place outside the Novi-
tiate.
3. Professed Sisters having any novices
associated with them in their employment are
not permitted to enter into conversation with
them, beyond giving them the directions
needed for their work.
4. Should circumstances render an inter-
view between a professed Sister and a novice
absolutely necessary, it can only take place
with the permission of the Superior and Mis-
tress of Novices, in an apartment contiguous
to the Novitiate and, if possible, in presence
of the Mistress.
The professed Sisters supervising the dif-
ferent charges of the house will see that none
of the novices are kept from their spiritual
duties and will so arrange their work that
they may be in the Novitiate at the appointed
time.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
149
THE POSTULANTS
When postulants have been admitted to
their probation^ they assist^ like the novices^
at all the exercises of the Community, except
at the Chapter of Faults, and at the discipline
exercise, up to a short time previous to their
reception of the Holy Habit.
They write a list of the articles of clothing,
etc., that they bring with them, and add to it
those sent to them during their probation.
To this they affix their signature and hand it
to their Mistress, as also the certificate of
their baptism, which they are to bring with
them, to be kept till their profession.
Before entering the Novitiate, they deliver
to the Superior whatever they may actually
have in their possession, and from that time
they are not allowed to give, lend or borrow,
without permission, so that they may learn
from the beginning, the love and practice of
that poverty, of which they intend, after-
wards, to make profession.
Their uniform consists of a black dress and
cape of the same material.
Whenever they go to the Chapel, and
during the exercises in times of general re-
treat, extra assemblies of the Community,
such as on occasion of a visit from a Bishop
150 MANUAL OF THE
or other dignitary of the Churchy they wear
a black veil.
Having but lately quitted the worlds they
refrain from reviving in their hearts an in-
ordinate love of their kindred and friends^
etc., by a too frequent correspondence with,
or soliciting visits from them.
During the time of their probation, the
postulants apply themselves, with the simplic-
ity of a child, to learn all that is proposed to
them by their Mistress.
They study Christian Doctrine, learn how
to say the Community prayers properly, com-
mit to memory, if possible, the Pater, Ave,
Credo, the Veni Creator, the De Profundis,
Miserere, and the Canticle Magnificat.
Those who understand music continue to
practice.
They acquit themselves faithfully and dili-
gently of their little employments, as if in
union with the little Jesus at Nazareth, they
were serving the most holy Virgin and St.
Joseph, his foster-father.
THE NOVICES
Conformably to our Constitutions, and as
decreed by Pope Clement VIII., the novices
are separated from the professed members
during all the time of their novitiate, nor are
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 151
they sent to any Mission Houses, except in
cases of great necessity after having consulted
and obtained the sanction of higher Superiors.
During the first year of their novitiate, the
novices apply themselves with great diligence
to study the principles of the religious life,
the spirit of the Institute they desire to em-
brace, and the virtues required in its members.
They particularly endeavor to acquire a
thorough knowledge of the five points set
forth in the decree of Clement VIII., which
are given above.
During this year they do not apply them-
selves to study the secular sciences, except
reading, writing. Christian Doctrine and
manual work. They are also taught singing,
especially the sacred chant for Mass, Vespers,
and pious hymns and canticles. Those who
already possess a knowledge of music con-
tinue to apply thereto, if Superiors judge it
convenient or best to do so.
They should entertain a great esteem for
regular observance and the Common Life,
avoiding, with the greatest care, all singular-
ity in their conduct.
On the eves of Eeception and Profession,
the candidates for the same kneel in the center
of the Chapel during the examination of con-
science, and each one, separately, acknowl-
edges the violations of Rule she may have
152 MANUAL OP THE
been guilty of, and concludes by saying:
"Mother and Sisters^ I thank you for having
received me into the Congregation; please
have the charity to pray that I may become
a good religious/^
The novices have a private conference with
their Mistress once a month, and the postu-
lants more frequently, for the purpose of re-
ceiving instruction on the due performance
of their duties and the exercise of true relig-
ious virtues.
They may also, on these occasions, state
any difficulties they may experience in re-
gard to their employments or other exterior
duties, that the cause of little disturbances
being removed, they may make the more prog-
ress, serving our Lord with great cheerful-
ness and joy of heart.
The novices are free to have recourse to
the Mother-General and Mother-Provincial
at any time. Candor and perfect freedom
should characterize these interviews.
Each one, according as the Mistress may
appoint, spends daily some little time in pri-
vate spiritual reading^ such as "Rodriguez^
Christian Perfection,^^ or St. Liguori^s
"Spouse of Christ,^^ the substance of which
the novices will strive to imprint well on their
minds and hearts during their Novitiate.
When engaged at work in the different
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 153
parts of the House^ such as the store-rooms,
kitchen, refectory, laundry, dormitories, etc.,
the novices strive to be :
1. Punctual to the time appointed.
2. Prompt and diligent in the perform-
ance of their task.
3. Exact to the directions given by the
Sister in charge.
4. Careful in doing it well, and acting
from a supernatural motive, remembering the
greatness of the Master whom they serve.
5. Paithful in turning to advantage every
moment of time, for each moment is worth
an eternity of glory^ dependent on the good
use we shall have made of it.
6. Eepair to the Novitiate as soon as
their task is accomplished.
DUTIES TOWARDS THE BISHOP OP
THE DIOCESE
According to our Constitutions our Sisters
are, in conformity with the decrees of the
holy Council of Trent, under the ordinary
jurisdiction of the Bishops in whose dioceses
our houses are located.
They will, therefore, apply to them for
their ordinary and extraordinary Confessors
and Chaplains, and for the following per-
mission :
154 ' MANUAL OF THE
To keep the Most Blessed Sacrament in our
Chapels.
To have Benediction and Exposition of the
Most Blessed Sacrament on extraordinary
days; for the erection of the Way of the
Cross, This latter has to be obtained in
writing.
For the Sister Sacristan to touch the Sacred
Vessels.
To found new houses or to undertake any
public or new charity.
To collect funds for charitable purposes.
To incur considerable debt.
If having to apply to the Holy See for any
dispensations, such as in the case of alienation
of considerable property or the religious
dowry, or the reception of a subject in regard
to the age specified in the Constitutions, or
from the vows made in the Congregation, we
may do so through the Bishop of the diocese
where such cases occur.
Some Bishops are very exact in holding the
canonical visitation of all religious houses in
their diocese. Should a Prelate signify his
intention to visit any of our Communities, the
Sisters should manifest their readiness to
assent to his good pleasure, and endeavor by
the most respectful attentions to show the
reverence and obedience due to the episcopal
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 155
office. By reverencing the Bishop^ we honor
and reverence the Churchy our Mother.
The Superior will have a balance sheet
prepared of the receipts and expenditures of
the house^ to hand the Bishop should he ask
for it.
The following is the usual
FOEM FOE HOLDING A CAJSTONICAL
VISITATION
On the appointed day the Bishop, or the
Delegate appointed by his Lordship, meets
all the Sisters in the Chapel, where he recites
the 0 Sacrum with V. and prayer, and the
Sub Tuum with V. and prayer, and concludes
with the V. St, Joseph, Pray for us, and the
aspiration, 0 Sacred Heart; or else he com-
mences with the Veni Creator, the V. and
Prayer of the Holy Ghost.
He then may make some remarks on the
subject of the visitation, and afterwards re-
tires to an apartment where he sees and
hears each Sister privately.
The Sisters, on entering, kneel to receive
the Prelate^s or Visitor^s blessing, and make
an acknowledgment of their exterior faults
contrary to religious discipline; after which,
when asked to be seated, and questioned on
156 MANUAL OP THE
the following or similar points, they will
reply simply as their conscience may dic-
tate.
1. The manner of performing their office
and Community prayers.
2. The observance of silence and other
points of discipline.
3. The observance of the Vow of Poverty
and administration of the revenues.
4. The care of the sick and infirm.
5. The administration of the offices in the
convent.
6. The state of material buildings.
7. The schools and other charitable works
of the community.
8. The relations of the community with
externs.
9. The accounts and temporal administra-
tion of the convent.
He may afterwards, in the general as-
sembly of Sisters, correct any general abuse
that he may have discovered. If he gives
any commands, he always does so in accord-
ance with the Eules and Constitutions, and
these he leaves in writing.
At the conclusion he addresses some words
of consolation and encouragement to the
Community, and then tells the Sisters to
kneel and excite themselves to contrition and
say the Confiteor, He then pronounces the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 157
Misereatur and gives the following absolu-
tion:
Auctoritate qua fungor absolvo vos ab
omni transgressione Eegulae et Constitu-
tionem^ et admonitionem majorem vestro-
rum^ at ab omni poenitentia oblita et neg-
lecta, et maxime a poena quae debetur prop-
ter fractionem silentii.
Et ab omnibus aliis de quibus consuevit
fiere absolutio in consimilibus solemnitati-
bus; ut sitis absolutis hie et ante tribunal
Domini nostri Jesu Christi habeatisque
vitani asternam et vivatis saecula saeculorum.
Amen.
He then gives a small penance^, such as
noly Queen, and concludes with his blessing.
DUTIES TOWARDS TKE CLERGY
In their intercourse with the members of
the clergy, our Sisters will strive to be ani-
mated by that spirit of faith, which will en-
able them to see the representatives of
Christ, our Lord, and the dispensers of His
heavenly mysteries in the persons of the
Priests, with whom duty may bring them in
contact.
In order to maintain the esteem and rever-
ence due to the ministers of God, the Sisters
shun all useless and unnecessary intercourse
158 MANUAL OF THE
with them, and when obliged to it by neces-
sity or charity, use all the precautions pre-
scribed by our Constitutions in the Chapter
of the "Eules for the Sister- Sacristan/^
They should endeavor to inspire their pu-
pils and all persons with whom they may have
occasion to converse, with great reverence and
sincere respect for their pastors, never mix-
ing up in parish affairs or taking part against
them, but supporting their authority and en-
couraging submission and obedience to them,
as "having to render an account of their
souls/^ In doing so, they might recall to
their minds the words of our Divine Savior
addressed to them: "Whosoever heareth you,
heareth Me, and whosoever despiseth you,
despiseth Me/^
Our Sisters are very careful not to scan-
dalize their pupils by a free and unguarded
behavior on occasions of any visits of clergy-
men to their school-room, and they consider
it a matter of conscience not to spend in use-
less conversation with their visitors that pre-
cious time, which belongs not to them, but to
the children, for whose progress they are to
be held responsible.
Let them be persuaded that nothing is
more incumbent upon them than to give edi-
fication in all things and in all places, that,
as true daughters of St. Joseph, they may
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 1^9
become a ^^spectacle to God^ to angels^ and
to men/^
No Sister should ever venture to go to the
presbytery unaccompanied by another Sister^
nor remain there longer than by necessity
obliged to do.
Clergymen will esteem us all the more^ if
we keep our place with them.
The Sisters are careful to refrain from in-
viting any clergyman to the convent^ without
license from the Superior.
When there is occasion for such visits^ the
Eev. Clergyman is entertained in the parlor
and never brought to the Community Eoom^
except on extraordinary occasions^ at the op-
tion of the Superior.
It is not customary to invite clergymen liv-
ing in the same locality to dine at the con-
vent, except on public occasions, such as the
visit of the Bishop.
At no time are the Sisters permitted to dine
with the clergy in their own convents nor
to offer them strong drinks for simple bever-
age. ^
Visitors from a distance, who are strangers
in the place, may be invited to dine, if busi-
ness detains them for some time at the con-
vent, or if they just happen to call at meal
time.
Above all, Superiors and Sisters should
160 MANUAL OF THE
consider it a serious obligation to discounte-
nance visits of clergymen made at late^ or un-
seasonable hours.
Sisters who would be inclined to solicit or
encourage such visits^ should consider the
greatness of the risk and their fearful respon-
sibility^ in thus giving occasion for the intro-
duction of abuses^ the evil of which can never
be sufBciently estimated.
The above precautions being in conformity
with the laws of the Church and the wise reg-
ulations of many zealous prelates^, our Sisters
are expected to faithfully adhere to them^
whenever occasion offers; for their non-ob-
servance would be sure to draw down on the
transgressors^ the censures of the Church and
the severe reproach of the whole Congrega-
tion^ and would deprive them^ as well as their
communities, of Heaven's choicest blessings.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 161
GENERAL CHAPTERS
PRELIMINARY REMARKS
1. Conformably to our Constitutions, a
General Chapter is to be convoked every three
years.
2. The one in which the election of the
Superior-General and her Council takes
place, is held every six years; the other, or
intermediate Chapter, in which the affairs of
the Congregation are treated, is also held
every six years, thus alternating every three
years.
3. The Constitutions make provision for
conducting the former, but not for the latter.
Hence, during the First General Assembly,
held in 1869, a form, or method, for holding
the same, approved by the Church, and fol-
lowed by other religious Orders, was proposed
to the Chapter Sisters for acceptance, and,
meeting with universal favor, was unani-
mously adopted.
THE AUTHORITY
The General Assembly of a religious Com-
munity is the highest authority of the Order,
162 MANUAL OF THE
or Congregation. It is above every religious
Superior elected or appointed. It elects the
Superior-General and her Councilors, and
it alone can remove them. (Const. Part I.,
Chapter 8.)
THE WORK
It regulates the General affairs of the Con-
gregation^ the introduction of new regula-
tions, or general customs; the extension of
Provinces and diminution of the same; the
assuming of new labors, or works of charity,
not provided for in the Constitutions; the
explanation and observance of certain Rules
and Constitutions, and their neglect; tem-
poral affairs, either to acquire or to relin-
quish. (Const. Part VI.^ Chapter 2; Part
I., Chapter 8.)
THE END, OR OBJECT
Its object is to establish a closer union of
the religious of the Congregation, and to con-
solidate the good works undertaken for the
glory of God. (See Rules of the Sup. Gen.
and Councilors; also Gen. Sup. of Institute.)
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 163
THE PEESIDENT
1. The General Chapter^ held for the elec-
tion of the Superior-General is opened and
presided over by the Bishop or his substitute,
as mentioned in the Constitutions, Part VI.,
Chapter 2.
2. But the Chapter held for the regulation
of affairs, every sixth year, is opened and pre-
sided over by the Superior-General, or if ab-
sent (in case of sickness), by the Assistant-
General ; but it is closed by the General Chap-
ter itself, by the majority of votes of the
Chapter Sisters.
ELECTION OF DELEGATES
1. As decreed by the First General Assem-
bl)^, these delegates are elected by a majority
of votes (secret suffrage) of all the Sisters
of that Community who have completed the
fifth year of their religious profession.
The Chapter of May, 1914, decreed that
when from any cause whatever the number of
delegates elected to attend a General Chapter
be lessened, the vacancy be filled by the Sister
having the next highest number of votes.
Since there is no fixed time for the hold-
ing of the intermediate Chapter, it is not
necessary to elect a delegate for the same^ be-
164 MANUAL OF THE
fore the Superior of said houses shall have
received official notice of the opening of the
Chapter from the Superior-General. The
choice of the delegates for the General Chap-
ter^ which is to elect the Superior-General,
takes place on the Feast of the Purification,
previous to the event.
2. As advised by the Chapter held in 1869,
the Sisters of Chapter Houses in electing a
delegate for the General Assembly should
inquire into the following:
1. Has she a great love and esteem for our
Congregation^ and an ardent zeal for the
advancement of its interests?
2. Is she thoroughly imbued with the spirit
of our holy Vocation, and does she manifest
great zeal for regular observance ?
3. What is the extent of her experience,
her knowledge of all the Eules, Constitutions,
decrees and customs of the Congregation ?
4. Has she a good understanding and a
sound judgment?
5. Is she humble-minded and sufficiently
docile to acquiesce when a question has been
decided by a majority ?
6. Is she animated by a spirit of faith, and
devoid of narrow views?
7. Is she prudent and discreet ?
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 165
THE DUEATION
It shall not last longer than eighty or at
most, ten days; but it may be shortened,
according to the matter to be discussed.
OEDER OP THE DAY
To BE Observed by all the Members of
THE Gen^eral Chapter
Morning prayers, meditation, holy Mass
and Communions to be offered to implore the
lights of the Holy Ghost.
At 9 A. M. Visit to the Sacred Heart of
our Lord in the tabernacle, after which will be
said three Our Fathers and three Hail Marys,
in honor of the Holy Family, and the Beads,
in honor of our Immaculate Mother, to recom-
mend to her powerful intercession the wants
of each particular member of the Chapter.
At 1 p. M. Prayers of Rule, followed by
Spiritual Reading, chosen from the Constitu-
tions and some other spiritual books or works.
At 1 :30 p. M. Opening of the session.
Otherwise the Chapter Sisters will follow
the exercises of Rule.
166 MANUAL OF THE
OPEmNG
1. The General Chapter is opened on the
day appointed, even if some members of the
Chapter have not arrived yet, provided the
majority of them are present.
2. The Chapter Sisters should make an act
to that effect, either by vote or by unanimous
suffrage. This should be the very first act of
the first session of the General Assembly.
3. The General Chapter is said to be com-
plete or assembled in body, if on the day ap-
pointed, the majority of the Chapter Sisters
can be present.
4. Having made this act, they may law-
fully proceed in the name of the whole Con-
gregation.
5. On the morning of the day on which the
General Chapter is to be opened, all the
Chapter Sisters shall be present at Mass, and
communicate, unless prevented by sickness
or any other like cause; and Sisters who are
absent, and arrive after the opening of the
Chapter, do not join the General Assembly
before having communicated on the follow-
ing morning, the Communion being a neces-
sary qualification for the Chapter.
SISTERS OP ST. JOSEPH 167
THE EANK OF CHAPTER SISTERS
The Superior General holds first place.
At her right the Assistant General ; then left
and right in the following order all the other
Chapter Sisters:
1. The General Councillors.
2. Provincial Superiors.
3. Provincial Assistants.
4. 'Local Superiors.
5. All other Sisters.
In every case the capitulars taking place
according to seniority in religion.
Opposite the place occupied by the Supe-
rior General a table is placed at which the
Secretary and her two assistants are seated.
DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY
In the first session of the Chapter, the Sis-
ters elect by secret votes, one of their number
who shall be Secretary of the Chapter. It
shall be her duty during it :
1. To transcribe the affairs, or questions
which are presented to the Assembly.
2. To collect the votes.
3. To proclaim on which side the majority
of votes is.
4. To record them in a book destined for
that purpose.
168 MANUAL OF THE
5. At the close of all the General Chapters,
to promulgate them in public Assembly ; and
6. To propose the closing of the General
Chapter.
The two x\ssistants are, likewise, chosen by
the secret votes of the Assembly, and they,
together with the Secretary, sign with their
own names, the decrees of the General Chap-
ter and affix the seal of the Congregation to
them, in presence of the Chapter Sisters.
SESSIONS
1. In the first session, after electing the
Secretaries, the Chapter Sisters likewise elect
by secret vote, a committee of two or three
Sisters, chosen from different provinces,
whose duty it shall be to receive, and to ex-
amine, all the questions, or affairs to be pro-
posed to the General Assembly; and another
committee of two, three or more Sisters, shall
likewise be appointed by vote chosen from
different provinces, whose duty it shall be to
inquire whether the Congregation has not
suffered, or is in danger of suffering any
damage or injury, either from within or
without, that the cause may be removed and
a suitable remedy may be applied.
2. After the General Chapter has held the
first session, the Chapter Sisters are forbid-
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH
169
den to converse with those not belonging to
Chapter. They can only converse with one
another^ and if any information is desired by
any of them^ they can only ask it of one
another.
3. There shall be one session on each day.
The questions to be discussed and decided by
the General Chapter shall be proposed on the
preceding day; and the day following, the
matters shall be discussed and voted for.
4. Every question shall be written out at
full length, and the paper shall be left in the
Chapter Eoom till next day, so that every
one may have an opportunity of reading and
examining the same, and thus be prepared for
the discussion and voting of the following
day. There may be allowed three days more
for any representation which a Sister may
think proper to make, before the question
voted for becomes a Eule or Law of the Con-
gregation.
5. Every session shall be opened by a
prayer to the Holy Ghost — either the Veni
Creator or some other prayer. In the first
session, the Superior-General shall give a
brief and exact account of the whole Congre-
gation, of each Province separately, and of
the principal establishments in each Prov-
ince, viz., the number of establishments, their
labors and works of charity, the interior
170 MANUAL OF THE
spirit and their temporalities^ their success
and their difficulties ; in a word^ the principal
features of the establishments of each Prov-
ince separately, and of the whole Congrega-
tion.
THE VOTES OF THE CHAPTER
1. There shall be an equality of votes in
the General Chapter, so that the vote of the
last Chapter Sister counts as much as the
first, and the vote of the Superior-General
counts no more than that of any other mem-
ber of the Chapter.
2. Every subject proposed in the General
Chapters shall be determined and decided by
the majority of votes. In case of an equality
of the number of votes on any proposed sub-
ject, the votes shall be collected a second time,
and in case of the same result, it shall be
decided by lot.
3. All important affairs proposed in the
General Chapter shall be voted for by secret
suffrage. Each Chapter Sister shall write
her own vote. After the votes shall have
been collected and examined, and the ques-
tion decided, the votes shall be burned im-
mediately by the Secretaries in presence of all
the Chapter Sisters.
4. Every question or affair decided by a
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 171
majority of the votes of the Chapter Sisters
has the force of a Eule which binds the whole
Congregation ; and no Superior^ either Gen-
eral, Provincial or Local, can set aside such
decision.
5. Only the ecclesiastical Superior can re-
ject or approve such regulations made by the
Chapter Sisters.
6. The General Assembly can itself undo
in a subsequent Chapter what it has consti-
tuted in a former Assembly.
AFFAIRS TO BE TREATED IN THE
GENERAL CHAPTER
1. General affairs alone shall be proposed
to the Assembly ; such affairs which the Moth-
er-General and her Counselors cannot decide.
2. It is the duty of the Committee of
Affairs to judge whether the affairs proposed
by any Province or Sister belong to this class
or not. If they do not belong to this class,
they shall be rejected. If they belong to it
they shall be arranged in proper order, viz.,
First, those of the Superior-General. Sec-
ond, those of Mother-Provincials. Third,
those presented by Local-Superiors. Fourth,
those presented by all the other Chapter
Sisters.
3. Every affair to be proposed to the Chap-
172 MANUAL OF THE
ter is written out at full lengthy giving rea-
sons and motives for same, and it shall bear
the signature of the Sister who proposed it.
4. These papers shall be transcribed, omit-
ting the signature, and be read by the Sec-
retary (omitting the name of the writer) to
the public Assembly, that the Chapter Sis-
ters may discuss and examine the matter the
next day, and decide the question, if neces-
sary^ by vote.
5. This paper shall be laid upon the table,
that it may be examined during the day.
6. After the affairs, approved by the Com-
mittee, shall have been discussed and decided,
then those that were rejected may be intro-
duced, if the Sisters who proposed them so
desire. If in the affirmative, the question
shall be read in public (omitting the name of
subscriber), and the votes of the Chapter
Sisters shall be taken, whether it is to be
treated in the Assembly or not; and, if the
majority be in the affirmative, it shall be
treated as any other approved affair, and if in
the negative, it shall be entirely rejected'.
7. The Committee of Damage shall inquire
prudently and diligently about the evils that
exist, or the damages that are to be feared by
the Congregation in the different houses;
whether these dangers and evils are from
within — from Superiors of different parts or
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 173
inferiors ; or from without — from externs and
seculars. Whatever they discover, shall be
proposed to the General Assembly by the
Secretary, that the matter may be discussed
and a suitable remedy applied.
CONCLUDING EEMAEKS
1. In tiansacting the affairs of the General
Chapter, the religious shall not be influenced
by private opinion, either of their own or
another.
2. They shall not ask counsel nor receive
any communication from any Sister who does
not belong to the General Chapter. But,
remembering that they are assembled in the
Holy Ghost, they should have God's glory
alone in view and the good of their Congrega-
tion, whose representatives they are.
3. In the discussion of any subject, they
should carefully avoid personalities, all pri-
vate interests and narrow views. They shall
speak one after another, giving their reasons
briefly and clearly, with great simplicity,
modesty and charity, and then leave to the
Holy Spirit the whole matter TO DE-
CLAEE. Whatsoever shall be the final de-
cision, they shall humbly acquiesce, as if they
had no other opinion than the one thus de-
clared.
174 MANUAL OF THE
4. When all the business shall have been
transacted, the Secretary shall propose the
closing of the General Chapter. The votes
shall be collected, and if the majority be in
the affirmative, it shall be closed by the read-
ing of all the decrees passed in the Assembly.
The Secretary, with her two Assistants, shall
subscribe the decrees with their own signa-
tures and affix the seal of the Congregation to
them. The "Te Deum^^ shall be recited by
all in the Chapter Eoom, and the next day
they shall communicate in thanksgiving.
5. The Superior-General keeps a record of
all the decrees of the General Chapters in
the archives of the Mother House, and after
each General Chapter, sends a copy of its
decrees to the Provincials, that they may com-
municate the same to all the Superiors under
their jurisdiction.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 175
EEGULATIONS
FOR THE
GENERAL CHAPTER
WHICH IS TO ELECT A
SUPEEIOR-GENEEAL
1. This Chapter is presided over by the
Bishop of the Diocese where the same takes
place^ in quality of Apostolic Delegate.
2. As decreed by the General Assembly
held in 1869, the election of the Delegates
shall take place three months previous to the
election of the Mother-General, namely, on
the Feast of the Purification of the Most
Blessed Virgin Mary; and from this period,
the ^^Veni Creator^^ is to be recited daily in
all the Houses of the Congregation, to im-
plore for the Electrices the lights necessary
to make a worthy choice.
3. From this time until the General Chap-
ter is convoked, the Chapter Sisters shall seri-
ously examine for whom they shall vote, and
they will earnestly implore light from above,
and consult Chapt. 1st, Part V., and Chapt.
176 MANUAL OF THE
3rd^ of Part VI., of the Constitutions, to>
gether with the following qualifications to aid
them in making their choice.
4. The Sister Electrices may ask informa-
tion on the following points :
a. What is her spirit, her gift of prayer,
her zeal for the glory of God?
1). Is her life exemplary? Is she sincerely
humble, obedient, charitable, especially to the
Sisters, zealous for the salvation of souls?
c. What is her natural character ? Has
she greatness of soul, aptitude for affairs and
constancy, joined to fortitude in prosecuting
the same?
d. Is she free from the passions of anger,
ambition, vanity.
e. What is her talent for conversation?
Are her manners amiable, polite, modest?
/. What is the extent of her education and
useful acquirements? Has she good sense
and sound judgment? Has she prudence
and discretion in treating with the Sisters
and externs ?
5^. What offices has she filled during the
past, and how did she conduct herself in the
discharge of them ? Has she shown herself
mild or severe, vigilant or negligent, discreet
or imprudent, firm or weak, etc. ?
h. Has she good health and the strength
necessary to support the labors? Her age.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 177
experience^ edification^ good name and repu-
tation ?
5. All the Chapter Sisters are permitted
to take information regarding any Sister that
is eligible to the office of Superior-General,
but in doing so, they should be animated by a
pure intention for the glory of God and the
good of the Institute, free from all ambition
and uncharitableness, acting at the same time
with great prudence and discretion.
6. As the votes in the election are strictly
private, no one must seek to know who it is
that another intends to vote for, or for whom
she has voted (if the election be over) ;
neither should anyone express disapprobation
at the result of the election, but all must try
to act so that the most penetrating may have
no reason to suppose that the person elected
be not the one chosen by her.
7. Conformably to our Constitutions, dur-
ing the eight days preceding the election,
the Community at the Mother-House shall
say after Mass the Veni Creator, the pra^^er
of the Holy Ghost and the V., and prayer of
St. Joseph, and offer the Holy Communion
three times to obtain the light necessary for
the electrices to make a worthy selection.
8. The entire Congregation should, like-
wise, unite in fervent prayer to God during
these eight days, that the majority of votes
178 MANUAL OF THE
ma}^ be given to her whom God Himself has
chosen to fill the office of Superior-General.
9. Our Constitutions likewise ordain that
during these eight days the Electrices abstain
from conversing on the subject of the elec-
tion and in order to insure its more ready ob-
servance, the General Chapter, held in 1869,
after declaring the necessity of this precau-
tion, wisely decreed that the electrices during
this interval should make a spiritual retreat.
FOEMULA
TO BE FOLLOWED ON THE MORNING OF THE
ELECTION
1. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is of-
fered, as the Bishop, in quality of Apostolic
Delegate, may have directed, at which all the
Electrices receive Holy Communion. This
Communion is a necessary qualification for a
vote.
2. The Sacristan places seats in the Sanc-
tuary for the Bishop and the Assistant-Priest,
and a table on which are : Writing materials ;
a ballot-box, in which to deposit the votes; a
list of all the voters according to their senior-
ity in the General Chapter; this list is writ-
ten the previous evening, and the places in
the Chapel appointed to them; a list of the
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 170
four CoimseloTs^ from which the President
selects two names to stand as witnesses, whilst
he and his Assistant count the votes; a copy
of the Eule, with mark on chapter of the
election.
3. Another little table is placed near, with
matches and urn, for burning the votes.
4. Outside the Sanctuary^ near the railing,
is placed a table, with writing material for
the Secretaries of the General Chapter.
5. Outside the railing, at opposite sides, are
placed several stands, with writing material
and' prepared slips of paper for the voters.
6. A book with the customarv Profession
of Faith is placed in the center of the railing
for the newly elected Superior-General.
OPENING
1. At the sound of the bell the voters as-
semble in the Chapel and take their seats ac-
cording to their rank in the General Chapter.
2. The President opens the Chapter by re-
citing the Veni Creator with prayer to the
Holy Ghost, alternately with the Chapter Sis-
ters.
3. The Mother-General resigns her charge
into the hands of the President, afterwards
acknowledges the faults committed in the
180 MANUAL OF THE
exercise of her office, and leaves the Chapel
after the President has absolved her^ say-
ing :
4. ^^The Congregation exonerates you from
the office of Superior. In the name of the
Father^ and of the Son^ and of the Holy
Ghost. Amen/^
5. The President places the government in
the hands of the Mother-Assistant. Const.,
Part VI., Chapter 2.
6. The General Chapter is declared duly
opened by vote of the Sisters. (See Form-
ula.)
7. The President addresses the Electrices
on the importance of the election. Duty of
the Electrices.
8. The Bishop selects two of the Counsel-
ors on the list before him to act as witnesses.
(Const., p. 130.)
9. Election of the Secretary and Assist-
ant Secretary. (See Formula.)
10. Election of the Mother-General: Each
Electrix, according to the rank she holds in
the General Chapter, goes to write her vote
at one of the stands on the side she oc-
cupies in the Chapel: and when all have
finished writing their votes, they go in the
same order to deposit them in the ballot
box.
11. The President and his assistant first
§iSTJERS OF ST. JOSEPH 18 i
count the Yoie^ id see if they correspond ili
number to the list of ^oiets.,
12. The President reads the vWes' in pres-
ence of his Assistant and two Counseloi-s:
To preserve the secrecy of the votes, the lat-
ter do not read them, but act simply as wit-
nesses to the proceedings.
13. The Sister who obtains the absolute
majority of votes, viz., more than half the
votes of those present, is proclaimed by the
President as the one duly elected.
14. The elected Mother reads the Profes-
sion of Faith, and is confirmed by the Presi-
dent in these words :
"We confirm your election of Superior-
General of this Congregation, in the name of
the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost. Amen.^^
15. The votes are now burned in presence
of all.
16. Election of the four Counselors in the
same manner as that of the Mother-General.
Each Electrix writes four names on one bil-
let.
17. The four who obtain the absolute ma-
jority of votes, that is, more than half of all
the votes, are elected Counselors, and pro-
claimed aloud by the President.
18. The votes are burned in presence of
all.
182 MANUAL
19. If deemed advisable^ the President
says a few words of exhortation analogous to
the occasion.
20. All recite aloud the ''Te Deum."
Close of Session.
INDEX
Page
Daily Observances 5
Weekly Observances 10
Monthly Observances 12
Annual Observances 15
Intentions for Holy Communion 21
Days of Exposition of the Most Blessed Sac-
rament 25
Benediction Days 27
General Novenas 28
Days of General Recreation 32
Administration of the Last Sacraments 34
The Office and Spiritual Exercises 42
The Vows Taken in Our Congregation 45
The Vow of Poverty 46
The Vow of Chastity 52
General Ptemarks on Obedience 55
Permissions 57
Humility and Charity 59
Charity 61
Enclosure 64
Duties of Hospitality 67
Form of Religious Dress 69
General Customs of the Sisters 72
11 INDEX
Page
Exercises of the Different Offices
The Superior-General 89
The Mother Assistant 90
The Superiors-Provincial . . . , 91
The Councilors 94
The Local Superiors 96
The Sister- Assistants 100
The Procuratrix 103
The Secretary 104
Mistress of Novices 106
The Sister Teachers 110
Sisters in Orphan Asylums 113
Sisters Employed in Hospitals 116
The Infirmarian 119
Sisters Who Visit the Sick and the Poor. . . . 121
The Sacristan 123
The Reader 126
Form of Announcement in the Refectory.... 127
The Visitors 128
Those Who Travel 129
The Sisters Who Take Charge of Visitors.. . 131
The Caller 1315
The Portress 132
The Refectorian 133
The Server at Table 134
The Keeper of the Wardrobe 135
The Dispenser 137
The Cook 137
The Baker 139
INDEX 111
Page
The Sister Charged to Superintend the Laun-
dry 139
The Novitiate 142
The Postulants 149
The Novices 150
Duties Towards the Bishop of the Diocese. . . 153
Form for Holding a Canonical Visitation 155
Duties Towards the Clergy 157
General Chapters
Preliminary Remarks 161
The Authority , 161
The Work 162
The End, or Object 162
The President 163
Election of Delegates 163
The Duration 165
Order of the Day 165
Opening 166
Rank of Chapter Sisters 167
Duties of the Secretary 167
Sessions 168
The Votes of the Chapter 170
Affairs to be Treated in the General Chapter 171
Concluding Remarks 173
Regulations for the General Chapter
Election of Superior-General. 175
Formula for Morning of Election 178
Opening 179
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