Chapter 34

1But let him accomplish in the Church those things which are right. Let [his] ministry be thus. First, let him do 1Or: Sons, . 2S. resumes here with the words: 37. Of the deacon. 3§.: let the deacon be appointed. For the word, see p. 90. 5M. omits: he be. ® Or: enticements. ®§.: and borne. ®§. [Lagarde]: disturbed by. only those things which are commanded by the bishop as for proclamation!; and let him be the counsellor of the whole clergy? and the mystery* of the Church; who ministereth to the sick, who ministereth to the strangers, who helpeth the widows, who is the father of the orphans, who goeth about all the houses of those that are in need, lest any be in affliction or sickness or misery. Let him go about in the houses of the catechumens, so that he may confirm those who are doubting and teach those who are unlearned.* Let him clothe those men® who have departed,’ adorning [them]; burying’ the strangers; guiding those who pass from their dwelling, or go into captivity. For the help ® of those who are in need let him notify the Church; let him not trouble the bishop; but only on the first day of the week let him make mention about everything, so that he may know. Let him be watchful at the hour of the assembly, going about in the church, and let him see that no one be [ there who is] proud, or® a buffoon, or a spy,’® or one who speaketh idle [words]. Let him rebuke [such], every one seeing and hearing, and let him thrust out him whom he hath condemued # to receive punishment, so that the others also may fear. And if [the offender] persuade him to permit him to partake, let him give? him comfort. But if the man persist in his transgression or disorderliness, let him take [word] about him up to the bishop, and let him be separated seven days, and then called; so that he be not taken captive.” But if when he cometh he still continue and persist in his folly, let him be cut off until he, repenting truly, come to himself, beseeching [to be received back, If he be in a city on the seashore, let him go quickly 1§.: patience (error). See Note, p. 190. ? «pos transliterated, 93.: and. W§,: a disturber. S.: who is guilty. about the places on the seashore, lest} there be any one dead in the sea*; let him clothe him and bury him. Similarly also let him search out the guest house,’ lest there be any one who is staying in the place sick or in need or dead; and let him make [it] known to the Church, so that it may provide what is right for each one. Let him cause the palsied and infirm to bathe‘ as is right, so that they may have a breathing space from their pains. Let him give through the Church to each one what is right.® In the Church let twelve presbyters, seven deacons, fourteen subdeacons, thirteen widows who sit in front,’ be known.® But of the deacons let him who is considered among them to be most earnest, and best in governing, be chosen to be the receiver of strangers. Let him alway be in the place ® of the guest house which is in the church, clothed in white garments, a stole only on his shoulder.