The Rule

Of vows

A brother makes the vow of poverty by dedicating a major portion of the fruit of his labor to the Church and to the Brotherhood.

As a witness to Poverty and service to the church, at its first meeting in a calendar year, Council shall distribute ten percent of the income received in the previous year to eligible not-for-profit programs or entities, in amounts that it shall determine. This disbursement is reported to the Community at its annual Chapter. (Council January 2001, amended October 2001). For information on the tithe see page 15.

A member of the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory who creates, or collaborates in the production of, a work or works for the use of or publication by the Brotherhood, and who wishes to retain his copyright, shall grant to the Brotherhood in writing the irrevocable right to print, publish, perform, revise or adapt and reprint or republish such work or works in original or revised form. A member who wishes to transfer copyright to the Brotherhood shall do so in writing. Any exceptions or restrictions shall be specified in the grant of permission. A form is available for granting permission and / or transfer. (Council January 2004)
The Brotherhood, in accepting the tithe as the “minimum standard of Christian giving” expects that all brothers will contribute no less than five percent of their income to the Church through their parish, diocese, province or national church. Contributions to other charitable ends are considered extra-mile gifts. This giving is not monitored by the Brotherhood, but is expected of all brothers in fulfillment of their vow of poverty as members of the Church and in acceptance of its discipline. (Council October 2004)

A brother makes the vow of chastity as follows: Chastity is the decision to live with all in love, with respect for each person's integrity. It is not a denial of one's sexuality and capacity for love, but a dedication of the whole self to God: free from indecency or offensiveness and restrained from all excess, in order to be free to love others without trying to possess or control.

Chastity is defined as entailing continent celibacy or permanent fidelity. (Council November 1989)

The practice of sexual harassment (persistent and unwelcome sexual advances towards another person) is inherently incompatible with the vow of chastity as understood by the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory, in which the members are bound to live “free from indecency or offensiveness and restrained from all excess, in order to be free to love others without trying to possess or control.” Those who persist in such behavior, either within or without the community, will be held to be in violation of the vow of chastity, and subject to disciplinary action or dismissal by Council, the standards of due process, fair hearing, examination and substantiation of evidence being observed. The more serious matter of sexual misconduct (forced or coerced sexual domination of another person) must also be seen as a violation of the vow. (Council October 1992) See Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Policy page 17.

A brother makes the vow of obedience to Jesus Christ as his only Lord and Savior, to the discipline of the Episcopal Church, the provisions of the Rule of the Brotherhood, and to the Minister General and other pastoral officials as appropriate.

Of the life of a brother

It shall be the objective of a brother to live deliberately and actively, corporately and singly, in such a manner that his every living moment may be an exemplification of the motto of the Brotherhood: “Soli Deo Gloria—To God alone the glory,” that those persons who may come to know him may by his example be brought the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. A brother must endeavor to witness to our Redeemer's love with quietness, patience, humility, charity, courage and prayer, knowing that it is not he who shall finally bring the light, but only that he shall become a messenger for the One who is the light.

Of the life of the Brotherhood

It is the obligation of the Brotherhood to support the work of a brother in his own witness to the gospel. Every brother is vital to the Brotherhood and is an integral member of the body. Let none be lost through negligence, ignorance or pride; but let each be continually fortified and strengthened with brotherly love one toward another.

Regarding ordination:

Members of the community who believe they may have a vocation to ordained ministry shall, prior to beginning the ordination process, write an essay to the Minister General setting forth their understanding of the relationship between the religious life and ordained ministry. The Minister General shall use this essay, in consultation with the Director of Education, as a basis for the pastoral support and guidance of the member throughout the discernment and training process. (Council January 1997) The Minister General and Director of Education, making use of this essay, will work with the brother to select a Brotherhood Ordained Ministry Discernment Committee (BOMDC), consisting of at least three members, including, where possible: the Minister Provincial of the member’s Province, a member of the community presently serving in the order of ministry to which he feels called, and a brother resident in the same diocese. It shall be the responsibility of the BOMDC to assist the member in discernment prior to engaging with the formal ordination process in his own parish and diocese. (Council March 2001)

While the canons of the Episcopal Church provide for a religious community to sponsor a member for ordination, due to the apostolic and nonresidential nature of the Brotherhood, a seconding letter or letter of recommendation rather than canonical sponsorship by Council and the Minister General is deemed appropriate. (Council October 1996)

Regarding communication:

In light of increased use of the Internet, and the fact that not all members have access to it, an ad hoc committee appointed by Chapter recommended the following procedures to assist in dissemination of news:

1) all Ministers Provincial should be on line; where this is not possible, a Minister Provincial should appoint someone to print out and send (or relay by telephone at their mutual agreement) all messages on a regular basis; and

2) each Minister Provincial must ensure that all essential information reaches those in the province who are not on line, by appointing an on-line member to convey messages to off-line members through a means agreed upon by both individuals.

It was further recommended that the “bulk mail” address be used for personal, Community, or church news, and prayer requests; that senders use the summary line to note urgent messages; that e-mail subscribers notify the “bulk mail” list manager of changes in e-mail addresses; that those using the “bulk mail” for general letters be mindful of those not on line, and send hard copy to them; and that e-mail not become a substitute for more personal means of communication between members. (Chapter August 1997)

Of the work of the Brotherhood

It is the work of the Brotherhood to witness to the love of God in Christ Jesus, which has been freely bestowed upon us and upon all of creation. This witness grows and is nurtured by a life in conversation with God, and is nourished daily by active prayer and meditation while living fully in the secular world.

A brother will develop the talents given to him by God in his service in the work and worship of the Church. A brother shall use these talents to the best of his ability in the apostolate and ministry to which he is called.

The Brother John E. Nidecker Memorial Continuing Education Scholarship Fund is established for education assistance to professed members of the community seeking to enhance their ministry. Under custodianship of Director of Education. Grants to be made semiannually at Convocations. Written applications for specific amounts must include back-up material concerning enrollment, cost, purpose, etc. Applications will be reviewed by the Education Committee and one Chapter-elected representative. (Chapter August 1987) No member of the Education Committee, or the representative elected by Chapter, may participate in the discussion of grant requests at any session of the Committee to which he has applied for such a grant himself. (Chapter 2003)

Support from the Nidecker Fund is to be used only for tuition and related expenses in a program of study leading to a degree, certificate, or credit. This would include both seminary or divinity school training, programs such as EFM, or diocesan ministry training programs such as the Institute of Theology. (Council April 1992).

It is suitable for members of the Community to serve on the vestry of their parish. (Council November 1986)

Of common worship

It is the obligation of each brother to participate in the celebration of the eucharist at least once in each week and, when possible, once in each day. He shall properly prepare for and give thanks for this privilege. Dispensation can only be granted by the Minister General.

Those who wish to remain quiet during the Peace at Community celebrations of the eucharist should remain seated to indicate this preference.(Chapter July 1993)

One, or at most two, members of the Community may be designated by the editor of The Servant to take still photographs or record a videotape during Community liturgies. No other photography or videotaping by members is permitted during the liturgy. (Chapter July 1994)

In Community liturgies, every effort will be made to include members in all orders of ministry carrying out the functions assigned in the Book of Common Prayer.(Council October 1996)

It is the obligation of each brother to pray the offices on a daily basis, and the Book of Common Prayer is to be used for this purpose. Other offices may be substituted only when a brother is taking part in a communal or public service (e.g: when on retreat at a religious house using another form of office). Dispensation from saying the noonday office may be granted by the Minister General when it is impractical by virtue of a brother's work.

As part of the adoption of the Book of Common Prayer as office book for the community, Chapter (September 1984) called for an ad hoc committee to draw up guidelines for praying the offices of the Book of Common Prayer in choir. In July 2002, Chapter adopted additional customs for use at Convocation and other gatherings. Some guidelines have been incorporated in the Customary. Others are:

— Rite II forms, and the contemporary language version of the Lord's Prayer are used at all offices.

—At the conclusion of all offices, all present observe a period of two to three minutes of silence, ending as indicated by the Officiant

—The Confession is omitted at the major offices, since it is an invariable part of Compline. If the community will not be gathered for Compline, the Confession might be used at another office.

—The Psalter for Morning and Evening Prayer is taken from the 30-day cycle. In months having 31 days, the Psalter of the 30th day is repeated.

—Two Lessons are used at Morning Prayer. After each, the Canticle suggested on page 144 is said (or sung).

—One Lesson (normally the Gospel) is used at Evening Prayer, and the Canticle is always Magnificat. On Holy Days (p. 996 ff.) two Lessons are provided for Evening Prayer, and Nunc dimittis is used as the Canticle after the second Lesson. Most major feasts have special Readings provided for Evening Prayer on the Eve of the feast. In these cases the three Lessons appointed for the day are read at Morning Prayer, the lesson from the gospels following the second Canticle. Then the two lessons appointed for the Eve are read at Evening Prayer, with Nunc dimittis used after the second reading.

—At Morning Prayer: The Apostle's Creed is always said unless the Eucharist with its own creed is to follow immediately; that is, as part of the same liturgy. It is appropriate to ask the Bishop Visitor, when present, to conclude Morning Prayer with a blessing. Necessary announcements for the day are made after the silence at Morning Prayer (or at an appointed time such as a House Meeting).

—At Evening Prayer: The Community Collect is said following the hymn or prayer for mission. The Officiant uses the closing sentence, “The grace of our Lord...” at the end of the Office, and the gathered community responds, “And with our absent brothers.”

Of private devotion

A brother is required to meditate for fifteen minutes in each day unless he is to hear or deliver a sermon or homily on that day.

A brother shall set aside two hours or more in each week for the study of Holy Scripture or other material on the spiritual life.

The example and teachings of our patron, Saint Gregory the Great, shall be held in high esteem by each brother. A portion of his biography or his writings shall be included in the annual reading of each brother, to be assigned by the Minister General at Annual Chapter.

The strength of the Brotherhood is dependent on the prayer life of each brother.

Of individual renewal

A brother shall make a careful examination of conscience as to his observance of the Rule and report in writing, as directed. He shall heed any counsel which may be given to him as a result of this report.

All brothers shall be alert to the possibility to a call to retreat at the weekend closest to the patronal festival of the Brotherhood, or at the embertides.

Of work as an apostolate

Work, being our share in creation and partnership with God in that creation, can be sanctified. All labor is equal in glory, honor and importance and the work of a brother should bear these qualities. Keeping in mind that all talents are gifts of the Holy Spirit, the work of all brothers must be to the greater glory of God. Work is an oblation to God, as is service to our fellow man. We must therefore give the best that we can offer.

The Constitution

Article I: Of name

The community shall be known as the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory.

Article II: Of purpose

A. The Brotherhood shall, through the consecration of life offered through its Rule, aid in the development of the spiritual life of each of its members.

B. Members of the Brotherhood shall express and exercise in the world their particular consecration in their apostolic activity, witnessing through daily life to the love of God in Christ Jesus.

C. The Brotherhood, through its common bond, shall encourage the growth and unity of all its members, as an example to all with whom they come in contact.

D. Following the direction of the Holy Spirit, the Brotherhood shall serve God in the work and worship of the church.

Article III: Of obedience to the church

The Brotherhood of Saint Gregory observes the doctrine, discipline, and worship of the Episcopal Church as the supreme authority under which it functions in obedience. The doctrine and worship of the Episcopal Church is set forth in the Book of Common Prayer, and authorized additions and supplements thereto. The discipline of the Episcopal Church is set forth in its Constitution and Canons.

Article IV: Of government

A. The three documents by which the members of the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory shall be governed, are the Rule, the Constitution, and the Customary.

B. The amendment of these documents shall require the following majorities of Chapter:

1. The Rule requires a seven-eighths majority for amendment.

2. The Constitution requires a three-fourths majority for amendment except for those clauses requiring a greater majority for action; in which cases the same majority required for action shall be required for amendment. This exception itself may only be amended by the largest such majority required in any clause of the Constitution.

3. The Customary requires a simple majority for amendment.

C. All amendments to the governing documents must be submitted to the Secretary, in writing, no less than 45 days prior to the beginning of the Convocation at which Chapter will meet, and distributed by him to voting members of Chapter no less than one month prior to the beginning of said Convocation. This requirement may be dispensed with, and other amendments taken up for consideration, by a two-thirds majority vote of Chapter.

D. The final interpretation of the documents of the Brotherhood shall rest with Council.

E. In addition to the documents above, the members shall be governed by any statutes or rulings of Chapter or Council, which statutes or rulings shall be kept in the minutes of Chapter and Council meetings. No motion (other than procedural or subsidiary) shall be considered for discussion by Chapter or Council until it has been put in written form, delivered to the Secretary, and seconded, except by a two-thirds majority vote.

F. All amendments to the governing documents and actions of Chapter and Council become effective immediately upon the adjournment of the meeting at which they are adopted, unless an alternative effective date is specified in the enabling resolution.

Article V: Of the Visitor

A. The Visitor is the guardian of the Constitution of the community, and is the guarantor to the church at large of the community's sound administration, stability, and right to confidence, and he is also the final court of appeal for the maintenance of its discipline.

B. The community will seek to serve the Visitor as desired.

C. The Minister General will report to the Visitor from time to time on the work of the community.

D. The Community and its leaders may seek the advice, guidance, and counsel of the Visitor from time to time as they deem appropriate.

E. Upon the occurrence of a vacancy in the office of Visitor, the Minister General shall invite members of Chapter to nominate bishops determined by the nominators to be willing to serve as Visitor. Council shall elect a Visitor from among the nominees presented.

Article VI: Of Provinces

A. Council may establish provinces of the community. All provinces will approximate (as nearly as possible) the provincial lines of the Episcopal Church or churches in communion with it, and shall be referred to by the same designation as used by the church. A minimum of four active professed brothers resident in a province of the church is required for designation as a province of the community. Members resident in provinces of the church which do not have the sufficient number for the formation of a province of the community are assigned as extra-provincial members of the nearest or most convenient province of the Brotherhood, as determined by Council. Should the number of brothers in a province fall below four, Council may dissolve the province, relieving the Minister Provincial of his duties and powers, and assign the members of the former province as extra-provincial members in accordance with the foregoing.

B. Provincial Chaplains shall be priests or bishops of the Episcopal Church or church in communion with it who may be appointed by the Minister Provincial to serve as confessors and counselors to the brothers in that province.

Article VII: Of the Minister General

A. The Founder of the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory shall serve as Minister General until his death unless he elects to retire from office (at which time he will give written notice to Chapter and to the Visitor), assumes inactive membership or is removed from office.

B. A Minister General serving subsequently to the Founder shall be elected to a term of five years by a three-fourths majority vote of Chapter. A Minister General so elected may serve unlimited successive terms. A Minister General must be an active life professed brother.

C. The election of a Minister General shall take place at the meeting of Chapter at or following which a vacancy in the office occurs. The Secretary of Chapter shall notify the Visitor of the election. The institution of the Minister General shall be accomplished through the Visitor (or a person delegated by the Visitor), at a celebration of the Holy Eucharist to be attended by as many members as possible.

D. Should it become necessary to seek the removal of the Minister General, Chapter, at a regular meeting or special meeting called by a majority of the Ministers Provincial, shall consider a motion for removal, which shall require a seven-eighths majority for adoption. If motion for removal is adopted, the election of a successor shall then be considered.

E. Of the duties, rights and powers of the Minister General

1. The Minister General shall guide the Brotherhood with love and affection, with patience, quietude, humility and justice, and being mindful of the motto of the Patron of the Brotherhood, Saint Gregory the Great, be a “Servant of the Servants of God.”

The Minister General's Discretionary Fund is available for expenses relating to the exercise of his office. (Chapter August 1990)

2. The Minister General shall lead the brothers under the guidance of our Lord Jesus Christ and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. He shall seek the prayerful advice of Council. He shall also seek the wise counsel of the Visitor.

3. The Minister General, when present, shall serve as chair to the meetings of Chapter and Council, or appoint a professed member of the community to act as chair. When acting as chair the Minister General may vote to break or make a tie. The Minister General has veto power over any action of Chapter or Council, but that veto may be over-ridden by a two-thirds majority vote of the respective body.

4. The Minister General shall appoint two active professed brothers as members of Council, each for a term of three years.

Article VIII: Of Ministers Provincial and other pastoral and administrative officials

A. 1. Ministers Provincial shall be active professed brothers elected by the voting members in the applicable province, with the consent of Council. Other pastoral and administrative officials shall be active professed brothers elected by Council. Council may appoint other officials to offices created by it, and not named in this Article, to assist in the operation of the community, and for its well-being.

Procedure for election of a Minister Provincial: If the vacancy in the office of Minister Provincial occurs less than three months prior to Annual Chapter, the election shall be held at the Convocation. Upon the vacancy occurring at other times the following procedure shall obtain: The Secretary shall send ballots showing a deadline for submission (no less than three weeks from the time of mailing) and listing all members of the province eligible to serve to the voting members of the province who shall vote for one eligible brother determined by them to be willing to serve. They shall send the Secretary the unsigned ballots for Minister Provincial in an unmarked sealed envelope enclosed in a mailing envelope signed across the flap. The Secretary shall open the signed envelopes and destroy them, then open the ballot envelopes and determine whether an election has taken place. If no candidate has sufficient votes for election, additional ballots are taken in the same way, the Secretary reporting the results of each ballot and allowing for withdrawal of candidates, until an individual is elected. Other pastoral and administrative officials may be elected at any Council meeting following a vacancy in the office. . (Council January 1993)

2. Detailed accountabilities of all officials may be subject to periodic review.

Members having concerns about the performance of officials should bring their concerns to them, or share them with their Ministers Provincial, the Minister General, or one of Chapter’s Councilors as appropriate. (Council October 1995)

3. All officials shall be subject to annual performance review. The Minister General shall be subject to annual performance review by Council.

4. Officials serve for terms of three years, and may serve unlimited successive terms. Officials remain in office until the expiration of their term, their resignation, or their removal.

Upon an official’s ending the exercise of an office, he is to contact the Secretary of Council to arrange for the return to the community of any equipment, tools or materials purchased or supplied by the community for the exercise of his office, and all documents, files or other records, generated or received in the exercise of his office. Council has the final authority to make decisions concerning the disposition of such items. (Council October 2000)

5. Council may remove an official from his position at any time for just cause.

6. If at any time an official desires to resign his office for any reason, he must notify Council in writing and grant as much notice as he can afford, but not less than thirty days.

The official BSG stationery is to be used only by those serving in official posts in the community. (Chapter September 1983)

B. Each Minister Provincial shall coordinate, facilitate and oversee the activities of the community in his province.

Official visitations by the Minister Provincial or another designated member of the community to all novices' parishes during their novitiate is recommended; financial support for travel expenses involved to be covered by BSG. (Council July 1992). For reporting responsibilities see the note on page 8.

C. Pastoral officials

1. The Director of Vocations is responsible for the maintenance of the procedures by which applicants come into contact with the community, including advertising or promotional information; the application procedure itself, including the interview with Council; and spiritual guidance through the discernment process.

The Director of Vocations is responsible for instructing all applicants of the procedure for obtaining background checks, and coordinates the Brotherhood’s part in the process. (Council November 2002)

2. The Director of Postulants and Novices is responsible for the training of the postulants and novices. He shall work with the Director of Education in the development of postulants and novices and make frequent reports to the Ministers Provincial under whose jurisdiction his charges come.

3. The Director of Education is responsible for the education of all members of the community. He shall appoint an education committee and head its activities in the development of the educational program of the community.

The Education Committee meets at the same time as the regular Council meetings to plan the retreat / workshop for the Convocation. Time for individual one-session elective workshops is set aside at Winter Convocations. Those wishing to present workshops, and members with suggestions should contact the Education / Retreat committee prior to the Council meeting. (Council January 1993)

The Nidecker Fund (q.v.) is under custodianship of Director of Education. (Chapter August 1987)

4. The Director of Associates is responsible for all Associates and shall maintain, and share with the community, records of their activities. He shall see that they are involved in the life of the community.

Associates are invited to attend the Annual Convocation Eucharist in accordance with their Rule. Associates should not arrive until Saturday, and if they require housing will be referred to local motels or other facilities. (Council January 1999, amended Council October 2001)

Membership in the Associates is open to Sisters. (Council January 1999)

D. Administrative officials

1. The Administrator shall supervise arrangement for facilities for meetings of Council and Convocation, and carry out such other administrative tasks as Council may from time to time assign.

2. The Secretary is responsible for maintaining the minutes of Chapter and Council, and for the preparation of documents and their incorporation into the record of the community. The Secretary shall execute and tally all mail ballots required for Chapter or Council.

The Secretary of Council is to request from the Trustees each year a list of those who have contributed to the Benevolence Trust Fund, to be shared with Council. A reminder to all members concerning the need to make contributions is suggested. (Council October 1995, April 2002)

The report requested by the Secretary each fall will be included with the agenda sent to each Council Member. (Council March 2001, April 2002)(Council October 1995)

3. The Treasurer shall maintain the fiscal records of the community.

The Treasurer is to provide each Minister Provincial with the quarterly percentage tithe standing figures of each member in his province. (Council November 1989)

The Treasurer is to transfer funds between the community’s accounts in order to avoid bank charges and maintain as high a balance as possible in the interest-bearing accounts. (Council October 1995)

4. The Director of Public Relations shall maintain and increase contact with communications media and disseminate information about the Brotherhood and its members.

No one will be added to the mailing list for The Servant unless they personally write to the editor. Any community member who has a friend or associate they think might want to get The Servant should give them the address and tell them to write. Members will be provided with extra copies of The Servant and back issues to give out as examples, pointing out that the form on the last page can be used to subscribe. (Council October 1992)

Any use of the Brotherhood or Associates mailing list soliciting financial support for any program or entity not directly governed by the Community requires the prior approval of Council. (Council January 2001)

IX. Of Rules of Order and the Conduct of Meetings

A. The latest edition of Robert's Rules of Order, except as superseded by the Constitution or duly modified, shall be the rules of order governing conduct of meetings.

B. In the absence of the Minister General or his designee, the senior active professed brother present shall chair the meeting or appoint an active professed brother as chair. The appointed chair may vote to break or make a tie.

C. Rules on voting

1. A quorum shall consist of two-thirds of the voting members, either present, or voting by letter or telephone.

2. Majorities are to be determined based upon the number of votes cast in a given ballot.

3. In all Chapter and Council decisions, absent brothers may vote by telephone or letter.

4. All elections are to be by secret ballot.

5. Voting on all matters affecting membership in the community is to be by secret ballot.

Article X: Of Chapter

A. Chapter shall consist of all active professed brothers, each of whom shall have one vote.

B. Meetings of Chapter

1. Chapter shall meet each year, as called by Council. The Minister General may dispense attendance by any professed brother engaged in the work of the church, or unable to attend due to serious illness or other grave cause. All other active professed brothers are required to attend.

When the Minister General grants dispensation from Convocation or Chapter attendance, a memo to that effect is to be copied to the person dispensed, the member's Minister Provincial, the Administrator, and in the case of a postulant or novice, the Director of Postulants and Novices. (Chapter July 1998)

2. Special Chapters may be called by a majority vote of Council, for specific purposes. Notices to attend such Special Chapters shall be written; provided that in an emergency, a Special Chapter may be called through other media.

3. Postulants and novices may attend Chapter meetings with voice but no vote.

4. In the election or removal of a Minister General, the dissolution of the community, and the amendment of the Rule or Constitution, all voting members are expected to participate.

C. Duties of Chapter

1. The amendment of the Rule, Constitution and Customary of the community

2. The election of two representatives to Council for a term of three years. These elected representatives must be active professed brothers and may not be serving as pastoral or administrative officials.

Chapter also elects a representative to the Education Committee for determination of grants from the Nidecker Continuing Education Fund. (Chapter August 1987)

3. The election of a Minister General

4. The dissolution of the community

5. Chapter may also consider and legislate such matters as are not the specific responsibility of the Minister General or Council.

Chapter may explore the “Consensus Technique” as a way to determine the “mind of the house” before voting. (Council December 1990)

Article XI: Of Council

A. Council shall consist of the Minister General, the Ministers Provincial, the Director of Education, the Director of Postulants and Novices, the Director of Vocations, two active professed brothers appointed by the Minister General for terms of three years, and two active professed brothers elected by Chapter for terms of three years. The Minister General, the remainder of Council concurring, may relieve either of his appointees. Chapter may recall either of its appointees for due cause at any time.

B. Council shall be consulted by the Minister General on such pastoral matters as may from time to time be required.

C. Council shall have juridical force, and may not be overruled by the Minister General, in the following matters:

1. The expenditure of more than ten percent of the assets of the community on any one project, mission or program, except in cases where such funds have specifically been received, collected, donated or allocated

Council establishes budget ceilings on various accounts at the Fall Council meeting. (Chapter August 1990)

All contributions to the principal of the Trust Fund maintained with The Episcopal Church are to be authorized by Council. (Council October 1995)

The Brotherhood is to maintain only a minimum of needed vestments and liturgical equipment for its own use. The community declines gifts or donations of such items unless approved by Council. (Council October 1995)

2. The interpretation of the documents of the community

3. The dismissal of a brother

D. Council shall meet at least once annually. At other times, meetings may be called as required, and decisions may be reached by letter or telephone as necessary. All members of Council must vote on the issues described in Article XI.C.

When a Council meeting is held at a facility or retreat or conference center, all Council members shall plan to arrive the night before the meeting if at all possible. (Council December 1988)

Ministers Provincial are to report to Council via e-mail or in writing on the current activities of all members within their jurisdiction. All required reports of Ministers Provincial, Directors and other Pastoral and Administrative officials are to be delivered to the Secretary no later than two weeks before the Council meeting, for duplication, collation, and distribution to members of Council upon arrival at the site of the Council meeting, together with an agenda for the meeting. The secretary will send a reminder four weeks before the Council meeting so that reports can be generated and sent to him by the deadline. Reports should be via e-mail or printed on one side of 8½ x 11 paper.(Council October 1994, January 1995, April 1995, and January 1998.)

Individual members of Council are able to ask each other for information on members’ observance of the rule (preserving confidentiality, but acknowledging general performance or failure to perform). (Council May 2005)

E. Active professed brothers may attend Council meetings with voice but no vote, except when Council enters executive session. The Administrator shall have seat and voice at meetings of Council, including executive sessions.

Article XII: Of membership

A. Eligibility and admission

1. Any adult male communicant in good standing of the Episcopal Church or any church in communion with it, may apply for membership in the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory, provided he is at least eighteen years of age and has the conviction that he is called to the religious life as practiced by the Brotherhood.

2. The right to admit candidates to postulancy belongs to Council.

3. The character and maturity of applicants should be tested. Expert advice may be sought. Recent converts should not be admitted until their constancy has been tested and firmly established.

4. In accord with the above requirements, and any others that may from time to time be deemed necessary, Council shall require of all applicants:

From the time the Director of Vocations determines (through a preliminary questionnaire) that an inquirer is a viable candidate to submit a full application, all communication between them, including the application itself, will be direct and not go through the main Brotherhood office. No applicant shall be contacted for a Council interview until such time as his application is complete, all references have been received, and the Director of Vocations has determined the candidate's suitability for further examination. When such suitability has been determined, copies of his complete application shall be sent to all Council members, and an interview arranged for one of the regular Council meetings, but no less than three weeks from the receipt by Council of the application. (Council March 2001, and Council December 1987, amended)

All applicants are required to submit, along with their application, payment and authorization as necessary for the execution of background checks in accordance with the policy established by the House of Bishops Standing Committee on Religious Communities. (Council November 2002)

a. written proof of parish affiliation and church membership

b. evidence of date of birth

c. the names and addresses of three references: pastoral, parochial and personal

d. a complete curriculum vitae, resume or biography, including information concerning association with any other order, community, or institute, whether of this communion or another

e. a personal interview to be arranged in such a manner as may allow as many members of Council to be present as possible.

Council will interview no more than four applicants at any given Council meeting. (Council October 1994) The Education Committee, in consultation with the Director of Vocations is authorized further to limit the number of applicants interviewed. (Council October 1996)

5. A person shall have been invalidly accepted, and will be subject to immediate dismissal if:

a. any information given by him in his application or interview shall be shown to be false or intended to mislead

b. he has concealed previous or current association with any other order, community or institute

c. he is liable to furnish an account of his actions to a judge or some other authority making legitimate inquiry

6. An applicant duly accepted for admission shall be so informed, and shall become a postulant-prospective.

Inquirers are encouraged to attend Provincial Quiet Days, especially Vocation Days. They may attend the Convocation main service (Saturday) and may – if necessary – arrive on Friday afternoon or evening, departing Saturday evening, or Sunday. Postulants-prospective will not be admitted until Friday, the retreat time of Convocation providing them with an opportunity to consider the step they are about to take. (Council June 1989)

Postulants-prospective are encouraged to attend January (Winter) Convocation at their own expense. (Council October 1994)

B. Postulancy

1. Postulancy is a period of probation in which newly admitted members begin their training in the religious life of the community, that they may more deeply consider their vocation from God, and especially to the Brotherhood, and that they may test their own resolve and fitness.

2. Postulancy shall normally require a minimum of one year. Extensions or variations shall be at the discretion of Council, as shall be the release of a postulant who is felt by them not to have a true vocation to this community.

3. A postulant may withdraw from association with the Brotherhood at any time, if he feels that the life of this community is not that to which God is calling him. He shall give notice of his intent to withdraw to his Minister Provincial, who is responsible for the recovery of his cross.

It is the responsibility of the Minister Provincial to notify the community of the departure or withdrawal of a postulant, novice or brother. (Council April 2000)

C. Novitiate

1. A postulant shall be received as a novice by Council. Special regard shall be paid to the opinions of the Minister Provincial of the candidate's province, the Director of Postulants and Novices, and the Director of Education.

Council discusses advancement to novitiate with each postulant during the retreat time at Convocation prior to possible advancement. (Council June 1990)

Official visitations by the Minister Provincial or another designated member of the community to all novices' parishes during their novitiate is recommended; financial support for travel expenses involved to be covered by BSG. (Council July 1992)

2. The term of the novitiate shall be two years but may be extended. Such extension shall not go beyond one additional year. If at that time the novice is not nominated and approved for profession, he shall be released from the community by Council.

3. The novice should be led by the Brotherhood to the cultivation of human and Christian virtues; guided on the path of perfection through humility of heart; formed in the application of the principles of the interior life; instructed to contemplate the mystery of salvation and to read and meditate upon Sacred Scripture; educated in a program of life consecrated to God and to humanity in Christ by means of the vows; taught the nature, purpose, spirituality, discipline and history of the community; and exercised in the style of life proper to the Brotherhood.

4. Members of the community should take care that they cooperate in the training of the novices by example of their life and work.

5. A novice may be released at his own request, or be dismissed at any time for just cause, by Council. The Minister Provincial is responsible for the recovery of the former novice's cross and habit.

It is the responsibility of the Minister Provincial to notify the community of the departure or withdrawal of a postulant, novice or brother. (Council April 2000)

D. Profession of vows

1. Procedure

a. Four months prior to the possible date of his profession, a novice shall inform Council, in writing, of his desire to make first profession of vows.

b. Council shall determine the readiness of the novice to make first profession. Special regard shall be paid the opinions of the Minister Provincial of the candidate's province, the Director of Postulants and Novices, and the Director of Education.

c. Upon the positive recommendation of Council, the active professed brothers of the novice’s province shall vote to determine their support for his profession.

When Council votes on membership matters, balloting is based upon a 0–10 scale vote rather than Yes/No vote; balloting for first or life profession is also carried out in this way. (Council December 1990)

2. The annual vows of profession shall be in force for one year at a time, and are to be renewed at the end of each year. Council may alter the term of annual vows.

3. By means of the annual vows, the brother takes upon himself the public observance of the three evangelical counsels, namely poverty, chastity and obedience, as described by the Rule of the Brotherhood, stabilized by a sacred promise to God, and the signing of an instrument of profession.

4. By making his first profession of vows a novice becomes a full member of the community, entitled to all privileges of the same, as well as becoming liable for all the responsibilities full membership entails.

5. A brother must have completed his twentieth year of age before being eligible for annual profession.

E. Life Profession

1. A brother is eligible for life profession of vows when he has completed a term of five years in annual vows, and Council feels that he is prepared for this commitment. A brother considering life profession shall make this known to his Minister Provincial no less than ten months prior to his prospective life profession. Following upon a process of engagement and discernment, the Minister Provincial may nominate the brother for life profession at the Council meeting preceding the Annual Convocation. A Minister Provincial considering life profession shall engage with the Minister General in a similar process. Upon the positive recommendation of Council, all active life professed members shall vote to determine their support for his life profession.

Council interprets the phrase “in annual vows” in Art. XI.E.1 as not including time spent on full dispensation. This period of time shall not be counted towards the five year term required before eligibility for Life Profession. (Council December 1987)

2. While life profession carries with it no further authority, it is understood that those who have by the grace of God made this dedication of themselves are due respect worthy the dignity of their consecration.

F. Termination of Membership: Withdrawal or Dismissal

1. Termination of membership in the community, whether at the request of a member or by the decision of Council, brings about release from all responsibilities and obligations to the community, relinquishment of all rights and privileges therein, and full dispensation from observance of its Rule and statutes.

2. Withdrawal from the community

a. A professed brother may withdraw from the community by submitting his withdrawal in writing to Council. Council may request a brother submitting his withdrawal to meet with it to discuss his reasons. Upon Council's ratification of this withdrawal, which shall not be withheld without reason being given in writing, the brother's membership shall be considered terminated.

b. A professed brother who upon the determination of Council has abandoned the communion of the Episcopal Church shall be held to have requested withdrawal from membership in the community, notified of this determination, and given reasonable opportunity to respond before the withdrawal is ratified.

Chapter 2003 clarified that a brother who challenges the determination of Council concerning his withdrawal can not be held to have withdrawn or requested withdrawal, and that if further action were desired it would have to come under the title of dismissal, and addressed accordingly.

c. The failure of a brother in annual profession to renew his vows will be considered as equivalent to request for withdrawal.

         3. Dismissal from the community

a. Council may initiate proceedings for the termination of a professed brother's membership in the community for cause, not limited to the following:

i. Persistent disobedience, or refusal to accept the obligations of the community embodied in the Rule

ii. Having been the culpable cause of imminent and very grave or exterior scandal, or of harm to the community

b. Council must follow this procedure in order to effect dismissal:

i. Council must vote to initiate the proceeding. This initiation requires only a simple majority.

ii. The member whose dismissal is under consideration shall be notified by certified return receipt mail, or by hand with signed acknowledgment of receipt, that such an action is being contemplated, and must be given the date, location and time of the meeting called to give effect to the dismissal.

iii. The member shall be notified of the reason for the proposed dismissal and shall be given opportunity to offer any defense.

iv. Only after these conditions have been met shall Council vote on the actual dismissal. The dismissal shall require a three-fourths majority, and will be effective immediately.

4. The Minister Provincial of the province of a former member is responsible for the recovery of his cross (and life profession ring) and habit, and for notifying the community of the withdrawal or dismissal.

G. Membership Status: Active or Inactive

1. Members who are able to participate fully in the common life of the community regardless of temporary dispensation are “active” for all purposes set forth in this Constitution, Rule and Customary.

2. Members who become unable at the determination of Council to participate substantially, if at all, without grave difficulty in the common life of the community due to physical or mental disability shall not be subject to dismissal solely on account of this inability to participate. In accordance with guidelines established from time to time by it, Council may designate such members as “inactive” in order that such members might remain lovingly and meaningfully a part of the Gregorian community for the rest of their natural lives.

3. Use of the adjective “active” in this Constitution, Rule and Customary shall necessarily exclude from its meaning “inactive” members. An inactive brother may attend Chapter with voice but no vote. Nor shall an inactive member vote in Province elections or any other decisions, though he shall retain a voice when permitted to attend meetings.

Council adopted the following guidelines for Inactive Status at the July 2005 meeting and added a proviso at the October 2005 meeting:
1. The Minister Provincial, acting on a professed brother’s request, or, if the brother is unable to act, the Minister Provincial on his own initiative, may petition Council to place the brother on an “inactive” status of community membership. Said petition should summarize the factual justification for inability to participate fully in the broad life of the community, with or without dispensation. In an exercise of due diligence appropriate for the individual circumstances of the case presented, Council shall ensure that the criteria for “inactive” status have been satisfied. (Note: placement on inactive status requires a majority vote of Council. In the case of a Minister General inactive status may only be assigned at his request.)
2. Inactive status is appropriate when a brother suffers from a severe physical or mental disability rendering him unable to participate substantially in the life of the community without grave difficulty, if at all. Examples of when Council might approve inactive status include, without limitation, the following:
a. The brother is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease; or
b. The brother needs to and does reside in an assisted living center, or nursing home, or other similar long-term residential institution, where travel is unadvised or amounts to an undue burden; or
c. The brother is receiving hospice care; or
d. But for the physical assistance of a partner, spouse, or health professional, the brother could not safely live in an independent setting and instead would require an institutional living arrangement with proximate availability of health care.

3. Inactive status may be reversed upon the request of a brother or upon the determination of Council.

4. A brother granted inactive status remains as an inactive member of a province. (October 2005)

Article XIII: Of temporal possessions and dissolution

A. The administration of the temporal possessions of the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory is the responsibility of Council.

B. The decision to dissolve the Brotherhood of Saint Gregory is the responsibility of Chapter. The Brotherhood of Saint Gregory may only be dissolved by a seven-eighths majority vote of Chapter, with the approval of the Visitor.

C. In the event of the dissolution of the community, or if it should cease to exist, the following formula applies: All property is to be sold and monies realized from such sale, together with monies held in trusts or bank accounts, to be centralized into a single fund. After the settlement of any and all outstanding debts, the total residue is then to be divided into shares representing the number of brothers under vows of profession at the time of dissolution. These shares are to be presented to the dioceses in which those brothers were resident in accordance with the Canons of the Episcopal Church.

The Customary

Of the habit

The habit of a professed brother is a white tunic with hood, extending to the ankles; a cincture of brown with the three-fold vows represented by knots; and a brown scapular. The Brotherhood cross shall be worn, with a silver-colored chain. The Minister General's chain shall be gold-colored.

Those in life vows shall wear a plain gold band on the third finger of the right hand.

The habit of a novice is a white tunic with hood, and a cincture of brown. The Brotherhood cross without the obverse inscription shall be worn with a brown or black cord.

A postulant does not have a habit. He shall wear the Brotherhood cross without obverse inscription.

In his Will and burial instructions, a brother shall provide for the return of his life profession ring and Brotherhood cross to the community. It is fitting that he be buried or cremated in the tunic, scapular and cincture.

Of the Brotherhood cross

The Brotherhood cross shall be of plain wood, inscribed on the reverse, “St. Gregory the Great,” and on the obverse, “Soli Deo Gloria.”

The Brotherhood cross must be worn with all clerical dress.

All brothers are encouraged to wear the Brotherhood cross with street dress.

Of street dress (the “work habit”)

The street dress of a lay professed brother may consist of any attire recognized as appropriate for lay religious, and the Brotherhood cross.

There is nothing in the Customary that would prevent professed brothers from wearing the “traditional [Christian] Brothers’ shirts.” (Council December 1988)

The street dress of a professed or novice brother may consist of the Witness Shirt and the Brotherhood cross.

Of the Brotherhood and those outside its life

Brothers should never discuss personal problems or situations of a member of the community with anyone outside the community. The personal affairs of former brothers and private matters of other communities are not suitable for discussion by brothers.

Of seniority in the liturgy

In procession, the more junior members of the community enter first. In choir, more junior members sit closer to the altar and to the choir aisle.

Seats are assigned in choir, not to establish a hierarchy, but so individuals may be in the same place from day to day. (Chapter July 1991)

At the eucharist during which a brother makes his life profession of vows, he receives communion immediately after the ministers, before the rest of the community.

Variations in order of procession and seating may be made when necessary.

Of the officiant at the offices

When brothers gather to say the office, the senior brother present either officiates or chooses the officiant. The officiant then chooses the lector(s).

Of alcoholic beverages

At any Brotherhood meeting or function, the only alcoholic beverages that may be served are wine and beer.

This restricts the use only of distilled spirits; other fermented beverages are held to be permitted. (Council November 2002)