CHAPTER 13 – BEING IN FULL ACCORD AND OF ONE MIND
“He [the monk] should not speak evil of, or harshly reproach, another, nor should he put anyone to the blush. Never should he violently rebuke anyone or carry on a conversation with a boorish person, and his speech at all times should be noted for its lack of boastfulness.” -From the Monastic Rule of St. Ailbe
“Let the tongue have its rein firmly in the heart.” -St. Columbanus
“The freedom to choose makes us like God: if we choose evil, that freedom becomes a curse; if we choose good, it becomes our greatest blessing.” -St. Morgan
“Be at peace, and have genuine charity among yourselves. If you follow the example of the Holy Fathers, God, the comforter of all good, will be your helper.” -St. Columba
Scripture frequently emphasizes the importance of being in full accord and of one mind, particularly within the context of Christian community. Passages like Acts 1:14 depict the early church gathered “with one accord” in prayer. This signifies a shared purpose and a unified direction. Imagine an orchestra where each musician plays a different note – the result would be cacophony, not harmony. Similarly, a Christian community thrives when its members are united in their goals, working together to fulfill God’s will.
Unity in thought and action as mentioned in Philippians 2:2 encourages believers to be “of the same mind and having the same love.” This speaks to a deeper level of unity, where individuals not only share a common purpose but also approach it with similar perspectives and actions. Imagine a team building a house – some may prefer hammers, others drills. While the tools differ, everyone works towards the same goal, ensuring a unified effort.
Being in full accord and of one mind doesn’t mean blind conformity. Healthy discussion and diverse viewpoints can enrich a community. However, the Bible emphasizes the importance of striving for a common ground, a shared understanding of God’s purpose, and a willingness to work together in love to achieve it.
As a community of mature adults, we share the responsibility for our collective well-being and mission. Decisions are made through a process of seeking consensus, ensuring everyone is heard and considered. We strive for unanimous agreement on matters impacting our spiritual life, physical well-being, and relationships within the church and world at large.
If unanimity is elusive on minor issues, we gracefully accept the suspended decision and move forward. However, disagreements on significant matters may indicate deeper issues within the community. In such cases, we humbly seek external counsel from our Visitor or Chaplain.
In emergency situations where decisions cannot be reached internally, we agree to abide by the judgment of the Minister General or Visitor, as appropriate. Remember, moments of disagreement or difficulty can be opportunities for reconciliation and growth. Let us embrace these opportunities for deeper connection and a stronger community.
Scriptural Support
Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 1 Peter 3:8 (NRSV)
If there is any encouragement in Christ, any incentive of love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Phil. 2:1-3 (RSV)
Jesus said, “If two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matt. 18:19,20 (RSV)