But if he still does not reform or perhaps (which God forbid) even rises up in pride and wants to defend his conduct, then let the Abbot do what a wise physician would do. Having used applications, the ointments of exhortation, the medicines of the Holy Scriptures, finally the cautery of excommunication and of the strokes of the rod, if he sees that his efforts are of no avail, let him apply a still greater remedy, his own prayers and those of all the brethren, that the Lord, who can do all things, may restore health to the sick brother.
But if he is not healed even in this way, then let the Abbot use the knife of amputation, according to the Apostle’s words, “Expel the evil one from your midst,” and again, “If the faithless one departs, let him depart,” lest one diseased sheep contaminate the whole flock.
CHAPTER 29
Whether Brethren Who Leave the Monastery Should Be Received Again
Mar. 6—July 6—Nov. 5
If a brother who through his own fault leaves the monastery should wish to return, let him first promise full reparation for his having gone away; and then let him be received in the lowest place, as a test of his humility. And if he should leave again, let him be taken back again, and so a third time; but he should understand that after this all way of return is denied him.
CHAPTER 30
How Boys Are to Be Corrected
Mar. 7—July 7—Nov. 6
Every age and degree of understanding should have its proper measure of discipline. With regard to boys and adolescents, therefore, or those who cannot understand the seriousness of the penalty of excommunication, whenever such as these are delinquent let them be subjected to severe fasts or brought to terms by harsh beatings, that they may be cured.