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DOCUMENT 5
REVISION
OF THE
CONSTITUTIONS
AND REGULATIONS
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SUMMARY
1. Declaration of GC21 .........................................
2. Modifications to articles of Constitutions.. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.1 Chap. V: Art. 39
..........................................
2.2 ~hap. IX: Art. 74 ..............................................
2.3 Chap. XII: Art. 94 .............................................
2.4 Chap. XIII: Arts. 103B, 105 """""""""""""""""'"
2.5 Chap. XIV: Art. 115 ...........................................
26 Chap. XVII: Arts. 139, 140, 141, 156,164, 164B, 164C, 164D
2.7 Chap. XVIII: Art. 179 ..........................................
2.8 Chap. XIX: Art. 186 ...........................................
2.9 Chap. XX: Arts. 195, 196 .......................................
.........
3. Modifications to articles of RegUlations
.................
3.1 Chap. I: Art. 1 ................................................
3.2 Chap. II: Arts. 8, 9, 10, 14, 14B ..................................
3.3 Chap. V: Art. 28 ...............................................
3.4 Chap. VIII: Art. 46 ............................................
3.5 Chap. X: Art. 57 ...............................................
3.6 Chap. XB: Art. 71B ...........................................
3.7 Chap. XI: Arts. 73B,73C,81,88B, 93,93B """"""""""""
3.8 Chap. XII: Art. 96 .............................................
4. Deliberations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
n.
371-386
387-418
387-388
389-390
391-392
393-395
396-397
398-411
412-413
414-415
416-418
419-445
419-420
421-428
429-430
431-432
433-434
435-436
437-443
444-445
446
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1. DECLARATION OF THE GC21
The GC2!, in conformity with the Motu Proprio "Ecclesiae Sanctae H,l 371
undertook a general revision of the Constitutions, which had been
approved "ad experimentum" for a six-year period by the SGc.2
The work of revision began with the evaluation of the observations
and suggestions sent in by the provincial chapters and confreres and
with the remarks contained in the Report of the Rector Major, which
reflect the experience of the past six years. Most of the observations
of the provincial chapters and of the confreres expressed requests
for clarification of certain concepts or more precise terminology;
they also suggested stylistic improvements in the text of the Consti-
tutions. A limited number of proposals were made concerning more
fundamental aspects of certain texts and the Chapter has examined
these suggestions attentively.
The Chapter kept in mind past experience as well as the guiding
norms of "Ecclesiae SanctaeH: theological principles for the adap-
tation of the text to the directives of Vatican II, historical salesian
principles for evaluating fidelity to our Founder's spirit and to our
salesian traditions, juridical principles to ensure the clarity of the
norms, "necessary to define the character, aims, and means em-
ployed by the Institute." 3
The GC2! found that the renewed Constitutions as a whole had been 372
received by the Congregation with a spirit of faith and with the will to
live them, as a gift of the Holy Spirit who makes Don Bosco's spirit
present and active in our time.
On the other hand, a scrutiny of the' past six years brings to light
some negative points: some provincial chapters observe that the new
Constitutions are not yet sufficiently known; they have not been
I Cf ES II, 12-14.
2 Cf Declaration of SGC, Const 1972, p. 11.
3 Cf ES II, 12b.
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240
CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
studied and thoroughly examined by all the confreres; above all,
they have not yet been fully assimilated and consequently expe-
rienced as a measure of attachment to Don Bosco and to our salesian
vocation. The causes of these deficiencies are identified by the
provincial chapters themselves - viz., the considerable changes made
in the text of the Constitutions by the SGC and the brief period of
time for experimentation.
373 The GC21 finds on the one hand that the Constitutions drawn up by
the SGC comply with Church doctrine and with our Founder's spirit,
though some improvements must admittedly be made in the text; on
the other hand the Chapter wishes to offer the confreres more time
for a deeper examination and greater assimilation of the Constitu-
tions. Consequently, the GC2l decides to confirm the present text of
the salesian Constitutions, extending the approval "ad experimen-
tum " for a further six years.
At the present time the text will be modified only to the extent that
changes are deemed necessary to clarify or complete it, or to fill
some legal lacuna. The modifications will serve to interpret the text
more clearlv.
374 In compliance with the Motu Proprio "Ecclesiae Sanctae," cited
above, the next Ordinary General Chapter will edit the text of the
Constitutions to be presented to the Holy See for definitive approval.
This GC21 consigns to that Chapter-through the Superior Coun-
cil-its working papers, produced on the basis of the observations
made by the provincial chapters of 1977 and by individual confreres,
so that they may be taken into consideration in the definitive revision
of the Constitutions.
375 A similar decision was made regarding the General Regulations, ap-
proved by the SGe. The GC21 confirms their force of law for the
whole Congregation after making only those changes deemed nec-
essary or opportune.
376 As it presents these deliberations to the Congregation, the GC21
wishes to clarify the proper character of the Constitutions and Gen-
eral Regulations and to underscore their spiritual characteristics
and binding force.
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
241
THE SALESIAN CONSTITUTIONS, which the SGC presented in 377
renewed form, in compliance with the norms of the Church,4 con-
stitute the salesian "Rule of Life."s In them shines forth as the
"supreme norm" "the gospel lived according to Don Bosco's spirit,"6
and in them are enshrined "the spiritual riches of salesian tradition
and the basic norms for the life of our Society."7
The Constitutions proceed first of all from the gospel, since they
present a way of following Christ, which is rooted in the gospel and
expressed in a particular manner of life, a gift of the Holy Spirit to
the Church through her Founder.
The Constitutions come to us from our Founder, inasmuch as they
are a concrete description of the spiritual features of his apostolic
plan and contain the essential elements of his charism. For us
salesians they recall Don Bosco, who left us in writing: "If you have
loved me in the past, continue to love me in the future through the
exact observance of our Constitutions."s
The Constitutions proceed moreover from our Congregation's dy-
namic and living fidelity to her mission in history. Consequently
they also contain norms apt to determine the spirit and aims of our
Founder, as well as the sound traditions which make up the spiritual
heritage of our Institute.9
For these reasons the Constitutions are approved by the Apostolic 378
See, which guarantees the authentic expression of the Founder's
charism in the text of the Constitutions and its usefulness in the
service of the Church. This approval makes the Constitutions real
laws of the Church; the obligation in conscience to observe them
derives however not from a positive prescription of the Church but
from the bond freely assumed by the confrere at his profession as his
personal response to the Lord's call.1O
Living the Constitutions therefore is for every salesian an act of faith
in Jesus Christ and in his gospel, a pledge of fidelity to a vocation
received as a gift in the Church, a "path that leads to love." 11
4 Cf PC, 2; ES 11,12-14.
5 Cf Presentation of R.M. Const 1972, p. 5 seq.
6 Cf Const 10 1.
7 Cf Const 200.
S Cf MB XVII, 258-273.
9 Cf PC, 2b; ES II, 12b.
10 Cf Const 200.
11 Cf Foreword to Const 1972.
16
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
379 Approval "ad experimentum" subtracts nothing from the binding
force of the Constitutions. The Apostolic See in fact, in granting to
the General Chapter in these particular circumstances the power
directly to promulgate the Constitutions, approves the text, authen-
ticates their value as a spiritual guide, and reserves to itself only their
critical evaluation at the end of the experimental stage.
This second six-year period of trial granted to the Congregation by
the Church offers every confrere and every community a special
opportunity to study the Constitutions and a motive to.practise them
with greater diligence, so that they may see the concrete situations of
their own life in the light of the spirit of Don Bosco, living in the
Constitution's. The Holy See's final approval will then be a more
efficacious confirmation of the living experience of the Congrega-
tion.
380 From the Constitutions, which define the essential el~ments of the
salesian plan of life, derive all the other norms which the General
Chapters and the competent authorities establish for the life of the
Congregation and for the constant renewal of salesian activity.
The GC21 wishes to indicate briefly the principal classes of these
norms.
381 a) THE GENERAL REGULATIONS represent the collection of
prescriptions which apply the general principles of the "Rule of Life"
in a manner adapted to changeable situations. Thus they contain
the concrete, practical applications of the Constitutions to matters of
universal import and are consequently valid throughout the Con-
gregation.12
The Regulations are more detailed and circumstantial than the
Constitutions. The Church has established that they be enacted by
the highest authority in the Congregation (the General Chapter) and
they can be appropriately modified and adapted, always however in
harmony with the Constitutions but without the need of subsequent
approval by the Holy See.
Juridically the Regulations form with the Constitutions a single body
of binding norms. They both have legal value, even though their
binding force may differ because of their specific content or because
of the explicit dispositions of the legislator.
12 Cf Presentation of R.M. Const 1972, 6.
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
243
b) Besides the General Regulations, the General Chapter may ap- 382
prove-as practical applications of the Constitutions-Decrees or
Deliberations and Practical Directives.
By Decrees or Deliberations are meant provisions of a juridical
nature regarding a well-defined matter. Decrees or Deliberations
may be issued to effect changes in articles of the Constitutions or to
establish practical norms of action. The binding force of a Decree or
Deliberation flows from the authority of the General Chapter which
approves it. Whenever a General Chapter decides to change a text
of the Constitutions the change must be approved by the Holy See.
Practical directives may be described as practical norms of action. 383
They are based on the supposition that they will provide directions
for specific activities over a fixed period of time.
Generally speaking, practical directives:
- either imply that intermediary authorities (provincial chapter,
provincials with their councils, provincial conferences...) will lay
down special norms;
- or they establish the best path to follow in fulfilling requirements
of the Constitutions or Regulations during a special period and in
particular circumstances;
- or they present solutions for. situations which emerge, for exam-
ple, from adapting norms to the post-conciliar renewal.
c) Finally, the Constitutions or the General Chapter, according to the 384
principle of subsidiarity or of decentralization,13 may explicitly con-
sign the application of general norms to provincial regulations or
provincial directories. 14
Provincial Regulations or Provincial Directories are particular laws
within the ambit of the general legislation of the Congregation.
They are enacted by provincial chapters 15 but must be approved by
the higher authority of the Congregation 16 as a guarantee of their
directive character and have binding force only after such approval.
Provincial regulations or provincial directories are binding only in
the provinces concerned and must always be a practical application
of the general legislation of the Congregation.
13 Cf Canst
14 Cf Canst
15 Cf Canst
16 Cf Canst
127.
123; Canst
177,4.
178.
177,4.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
385 While the GC2! confirms the present text of the Constitutions and
General Regulations, with the aforementioned juridical clarifica-
tions, it directs the attention of the confreres to the Acts of the
Special General Chapter, as the path to renewal.
The SGC was indeed a special moment of grace for the Salesian
Congregation, which was called to look at itself in the light of its
origins and of the expectations of the Second Vatican Council. The
doctrinal guidelines of the SGC and the practical directives having
no time limit retain their value for the Congregation as the founda-
tion of, and a commentary on, the renewed Constitutions, of which
they are an authoritative interpretation, a stimulus and a guide for
the realization of the salesian mission in our times.
386 But aside from every juridical norm, the GC2! is aware of the need
for the laws of the Congregation, especially the Constitutions, to be
transformed into life if they are to be a criterion of vocational
identity.
The GC2! therefore appeals to every salesian to continue during the
next six years in the endeavor to gain a deeper knowledge and a
greater assimilation of the Constitutions, by accepting the directives
of the Chapter.
To this end this Chapter calls to mind personal and community
attitudes, which are vital if the Constitutions, a text of spiritual life,
are to become effective. These attitudes are especially knowledge
and love, which lead to a living attachment.
A diligent and constant effort to attain a profound knowledge of the
values contained in the Constitutions is the first condition if we are
freely to undertake our religious obligations; hence the importance
of an attentive personal and community study of the Constitutions.
Useful to this end may be the time allotted to personal and com-
munity reading and meditation, monthly days of recollection, spiri-
tual retreats, and renewal programs in the salesian spirit.
Deeper knowledge of the Constitutions will lead the salesian to ap-
preciate them more as the patrimony of his spiritual family, the fruit
of the Holy Spirit's special action in our regard, and Don Bosco's
living bequest to us. Such an appreciation and love for the Consti-
tutions will grow through appreciation and love for the Constitutions
will grow through appreciation and love for the gospel; for the
Constitutions are nothing other than the way in which our vocations
calls us to meditate on and live the gospel.
Genuine esteem and love for the Constitutions will flourish in our
active adherence to and our observance of them-"not...a formal-
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
245
istic, could observance as an end in itself," but as "the essential
instrument for sanctification, a bond of union, and a safe and rich
fulfillment of the mission received from Providence." 17
May Mary Help of Christians and Don Bosco, our Founder and
Father, bless our efforts and help us be faithful, that we may expe-
rience personal growth and that our Society may develop for an ever
better service to youth.
17 Cf Presentation of R.M. Canst 1972, 8.
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246
CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC2!
2. MODIFICATIONS TO THE ARTICLES OF
THE CONSTITUTIONS
CONSTITUTIONS, FIRST PART:
OUR APOSTOLIC MISSION
2.1 CHAPTERV: Joint responsibility for the mission
art. 39
387 Some of the provincial chapters emphasize in various ways:
a. the increased importance of the role of the laity in all the aspects
and apostolic sectors of the Church, according to the indications of
II Vatican Council;
b. the increased presence of the laity in various salesian activities;
on the one hand this leads to their being more closely associated with
our mission, and on the other hand indicates clearly the mutual
enrichment resulting from the reciprocal collaboration.
From these two premises there follows the necessity of giving to the
lay people directly associated with our mission the possibility of
acquiring an adequately deep knowledge of the salesian spirit and
the practice of the preventive system.
For this reason the GC21, in the light of the debate on the participa-
tion of lay people in the mission of evangelization (cf the document
"Salesians, evangelizers of the young" n. 69-79) proposes a modifi-
cation to art. 39 of the Constitutions, so as to give greater emphasis to
the responsibility of salesians to our lay collaborators.
former text
modified text
388 Lay people often playa direct
part in our educative and pasto-
ral work. They make a special
contribution to the formation of
youth and also to the prepara-
tion of a committed laity for our
own work either in the parish or
on the missions. Our relation-
Lay people often playa direct part
in our educative and pastoral work.
They make a special contribution
to the formation of youth and to the
preparation of committed chris-
tians forour work in the parishes or
on the missions. Our relationship
with them should be one of mutual
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
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ship with them should be one of
mutual confidence and loyaltv.
We offer them the witness of
the christian life and we give
them the spiritual help they ex-
pect.
We also need in our youth work
to bring into being an "educative
community" in which parents,
the first and most important of
educators, and the boys them-
selves join together with us in
real dialog, being also prepared
to accept the joint responsibility.
In our family atmosphere such a
community becomes a living ex-
perience of the Church and a
demonstration of God's purpose
for us.
confidence and loyalty; they parti-
cipate in our apostolic work and
bring to it their own experience.
On our part we offer them the
possibility of a deeper knowledge
and understanding of the salesian
spirit through the practice of the
preventive system. We also give
them the gospel witness of our lives
and the spiritual help they expect of
us.
We also try to realize in our youth
work the "educative community" in
which parents, the first and most
important of educators, and the
boys themselves join with us in real
dialog and acceptance of joint re-
sponsibility.
In our family atmosphere such a
community becomes a living expe-
rience of the Church and a dem-
onstration of God's purpose for us.
CONSTITUTIONS, THIRD PART: OUR CONSECRATION
2.2 CHAPTERIX: The Salesian's Religious Consecration
art. 74: Formula of profession
Some provincial chapters suggested drawing up two profession for- 389
mulas, one for temporary and the other for perpetual profession.
The General Chapter is of the opinion that the profession formula
should remain basically one and the same for all, both in conformity
with salesian tradition and also to emphasize the basic sameness of
salesian profession, temporary or perpetual, and to indicate that
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
even temporary profession is already directed towards a definitive
commitment.
Nevertheless a modification to the present text is proposed, with the
introduction of a phrase to be added by those making temporary
profession to express their intention to proceed later to a definitive
act of consecration.
formertext
modified text
390 To this end,
To this end,
having full confidence in Marv having full confidence in Mary Help
Help of Christians, in St. Francis of Christians, in S1. Francis of Sales
of Sales and in St. John Bosco, and in S1. John Bosco,
and in the presence of... who
takes the place of the Rector
Major of the Salesian Society, I
make the vow for... years (or for-
ever) to be chaste, poor and
obedient, according to the wav
of life of the gospel traced out in
the salesian Constitutions.
and in the presence of... who takes
the place of the Rector Major of the
Sal~sian Society,
-(for the temporarily professed)
although it is my intention to offer
myself to God for the whole of my
life, nevertheless in accordance
with what the Church prescribes,
I make the vow for... years to live
chaste, poor and obedient, accord-
ing to the way of life of the gospel
traced out in the salesian Constitu-
tions.
May the grace of God and the
help of my salesian brothers at
all times keep me faithful.
May the grace of God...
-(for the perpetually professed)
I make the vow forever to live cha-
ste, poor and obedient, according
to the way of life of the gospel
traced out in the salesian Constitu-
tions.
May the grace of God...
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249
2.3 CHAPTERXII: Our obedience
art. 94: Community aspect of obedience
391
In this article of the Constitutions is presented obedience in the
community, understood as a common search for the will of God,
under the guidance of the superior, and as an obligation of shared
responsibility in our apostolic operations.
Accepting the proposals of the provincial chapters it is desired to
define more clearly:
a. the role of the superior, who performs the service of authority
'within the community as animator of the dialog and participation
which leads, as far as is possible, to a convergence of opinions and
union of wills, and so inspires fidelity in an action for which all share
the responsibility (ASGC, 646);
b. the process of community obedience in the phases of research,
decision and execution, as described in ASGC, 634-637.
In this way both the importance of shared responsibility and the
service of authority are made more evident. (cf. also the document
"Salesians, evangelizers of youth": the animation of the community,
n. 46-57).
former text
modified text
In a community we all obey,
even though we have different
tasks to perform. In matters of
importance we join together to
seek God's will by fraternal and
patient discussion. In many
cases the decision emerges from
the convergence of views. The
superior listens to the members
and gives due weight to their
opinions; it is he then who
makes the decision, if this is re-
quired of him.
In the community, in order to fulfil 392
the mission entrusted to us, we all
obey, even though we have diffe-
rent tasks to perform.
In matters of importance we join to-
gether to seek God's will by frater-
nal and patient discussion and with
a keen sense of shared responsi-
bility. The superior exercises the
service of authority, listening to the
confreres, encouraging all to make
their contribution, and fostering a
union of wills in faith and charity.
He brings to a close the period of
common searching taking the ap-
propriate decisions which will
normally emerge from a conver-
gence of opinions.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
We all commit ourselves to col-
laborate actively and sincerely in
carrying out these decisions,
even when they may not coin-
Cide with our o~n point of view.
It is in listening to the word of
God, and in celebrating the Eu-
charist that we express and
renew our common commit-
ment to the divine will.
We therefore all commit ourselves
to collaborate actively and sincere-
ly in carrying out these decisions,
even when they may not coincide
with our own point of view.
It is in listening to the word of God
and in celebrating the Eucharist
that we express and renew our
common commitment to the divine
will.
CONSTITUTIONS, FOURTH PART: FORMATION
2.4 CHAPTERXIII: General aspects
393 The verification of the specific theme of formation indicated the
need to modify art. 105 of the Constitutions in order to define more
precisely. tile character of the "formation community" as the normal
setting for formation; and the desirability of introducing a new
article into the Constitutions to emphasize the importance of intel-
lectual formation.
The reasons for these modifications and the enrichment they bring
are expressed in greater detail in the document "SALESIAN FOR-
MATION" approved by this General Chapter.
394 art. lO3B (new): Intellectual formation
Our salesian vocation orientates and characterizes the intellectual for-
mation of the members at all levels in a way that Is unique and original.
The program of studies takes into account the needs of serious scientific
reflection, as well as the religious and apostolic dimension of our way of
life.
former text
modified text
395 Formation has various aspects Formation has various aspects and
and the phases through which it the phases through which it passes
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REvcrSION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
251
passes should be given in houses
specially designed for the pur-
pose, although other suitable
communities can be chosen.
All these communities should be
conspicuous for their salesian
spirit; let all their members form
a family united in mutual trust
and common endeavor.
Each community, with the
openness characteristic of Don
Bosco's style of education, will
be attuned to the needs of the
times and to the new cultural
trends, paving special attention
to the aspirations of the young
for a more personal and more
responsible life lived in true broth-
erhood.
Each member in training is
invited to assume gradually the
responsibilitv for his own for-
mation and to give due value to
the various phases of his life.
should ordinarily be realized in for-
mation communities.
These communities should be
conspicuous for their salesian spir-
it; let all their members form a fam-
ily united in mutual trust and com-
mon endeavor.
Each community, with the open-
nesscharacteristic of Don Bosco's
style of education, willbe attuned to
the needs of the times and to the
new cultural trends, paying special
attention to the aspirations of the
young for a more personal and
more responsible life lived in true
brotherhood..
Each member in training is invited
to assume gradually the responsi-
bility for his own formation and to
give due value to the various pha-
ses of his life.
2.5 CHAPTERXIV: Phases of Formation
art. 115
a The GC21 has examined the proposals of various provincial chapters 396
asking for modification of art. 115 so as to permit the first vows to
be made ordinarily for a period of three years; the text drawn up by
the SGC does admit of such a possibility, but considers it an excep-
tion to the ordinary norm of annual vows.
Keeping in mind that, after the trial of a novitiate made with serious
diligence, if the candidate proves sufficiently mature and certain in
his vocation it is fitting that he should commit himself in a more
stable manner in his choice of religious life, the GC21 makes the
decision to modify art. 115, leaving the possibility of making the first
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252
CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC2)
VOWSfor a period of three years or for one year only. After the first
three years, temporary vows will ordirIarily be triennial.
former text
modified text
397 During the first three years of During the first three years of this
this period the vows are nor- period the vows may be either
mally made for one year at a triennial or annual. After this the
time. After this the temporary temporary vows should ordinarily
vows should preferably be trien- be triennial.
nial.
CONSTITUTIONS, FIFTH PART: ORGANIZATION
OF OUR SOCIETY
2.6 CHAPTERXVII: Structures of Govemment
and Regional level
art. 139: The Councillor for Formation
at Wodd
398 The formulation of art. 139 of the Constitutions, ~hich describes th~
duties of the Councillor for Formation appears poor in content, and
is drawn up in a manner which is rather generic and repetitive in
form.
In particular the present version omits important elements of the
historically characteristic figure of the Spiritual Director General (d.
first Constitutions, chap. IX, art. 7-9; Const. 1966 art. 71 and 74).
The GC21 presents a new article in which are condensed the tradi-
tional contents of former Constitutions in this connection, and ex-
plicit reference is made to the important sector of intellectual for-
mation (d. also the new art. 103B).
The experience of the past six years is much better expressed in the
new version.
former text
399 The Councillor for Formation
has the care and responsibility
modified text
The Councillor for Formation has
the care and responsibility for the
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
253
for the initial and on-going for-
mation of the members, especi-
ally during the period of forma-
tion.
integral and ongoing formation of
all the members. He gives partic-
ular attention to the period of initial
formation, the planning of studies,
and all that concerns the spiritual
growth of the members In their sa-
lesian vocation.
art. 140: The Councillor for the Youth Apostolate
On the basis of observations received from the provincial chapters 400
and following the debate in the Chapter, the GC21 recognizes the
desirability of confiding the care of the salesian commitment in the
parishes to the Councillor for the Youth Apostolate, together with the
animation of salesian action among the young.
According to the new text the parishes form part of our apostolic
activity, but without prejudice to the priority of our mission for
youth (d. Const. 31): this means that parishes confided to us must
always be characterized by their salesian spirit and by the priority
given to work amongst the young, without of course neglecting the
other areas of pastoral activity.
The principle motives which suggested the advisability of assigning
the care of salesian parishes to the Councillor for the Youth Aposto-
late are the following:
a) The necessity and importance of community pastoral work is
emphasized: the whole ecc1esial community in fact, comprising
young and old, is both the object and subject, the recipients and the
doers of pastoral work.
b) The specific nature of our work for youth, which has to be real-
ized in the parishes, is better guaranteed when one and the same
Councillor is responsible for both.
e) The strict bond which should unite all our different forms of
pastoral work in the ecc1esial community is made more evident:
oratories, youth centers, schools, parishes.
d) Finally, this transfer simplifies the present very complex and
heterogeneous systematization of the sector called in the past
"Adult Apostolate." (d. RRM 213)
On the other hand the designation "Councillor for the Youth Apos-
tolate" has been retained, in order to express the priority of salesian
action for the young, even in the parishes.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC2!
former text
modified text
401 The Councillor for the Youth
Apostolate has the task of fur-
thering, inspiring and coordinat-
ing the salesian pastoral care of
youth. To this end it is for him
to organize studies and pro-
grams of action at international
level.
The Councillor for the Youth Apo-
stolate furthers, coordinates and
directs, according to the spirit of
Don Bosco, salesian work among
the young at international level;
this may be done by promoting
studies; projects and experimenta-
tion. In addition he promotes our
commitment in parishes to ensure
an efficacious salesian pastoral
approach.
402 art. 141: The Councillor for the Salesian Family
Some of the provincial chapters put forward the proposal that art.
141 of the Constitutions be revised with a view to the appointment of
a Councillor for the Salesian Family.
It is well known that the salesian family, a charismatic reality func-
tioning in the Church through the intuition of Don Bosco, was re-
discovered by the SGC in its historical-pastoral-dynamic dimension
(cf. ASGC, 151-177,727-745), and inserted as a spiritual fact in the
Constitutions: "In it we have the special responsibility of preserving
unity of spirit and of encouraging those friendly contacts which lead
to enrichment and a more fruitful apostolate." (Const.5)
The verification of the last six years has revealed the need for a
deepening of this reality on the part of the Congregation, stimulated
and coordinated by the Superior Council, and at the same time the
necessity for union with other groups of the salesian family without
prejudice to the autonomy of each.
Keeping in mind that art. 141 of the Constitutions drawn up by the
SGC had already foreseen for the Councillor concerned certain
obligations with respect to the salesian family, it has been decided to
make more explicit the task of sensitizing and animating the Con-
gregation for the role it has to play in the family.
This also meets the requests of those branches of the salesian family
who expect from our Congregation inspiration and mutual help.
To the same Councillor has been left the task of promoting the
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
255
salesian commitment in the sector of the mass media. On him
depends the Secretariate for social comm.uilication, because of the
particular role which has been given to the Department. Neverthe-
less this Secretariate will not be working exclusively within the sale-
sian family, but will also be at the service of all the other sectors of
Formation, Youth Apostolate and the Missions.
.
former text
The Councillor for the Adult
Apostolate promotes the world-
wide salesian work in parishes
and in the area of the mass
media. In addition he has care
and organization of the Coope-
rators, Past Pupils and of liaison
with other movements of sale-
sian inspiration.
modified text
The Councillor. for the Salesian Fa- 403
milyhas the task of sensitizing and
animating the Congregation forthe
role entrusted to it in the salesian
family in accordance with art. 5.
He promotes the organization of
the Cooperators and Past Pupils.
He also fosters salesian activityin
the area of the mass media.
art. 156
The GC21 has made a detailed study of the norms which define the 404
participation of ex-officio and elected members of the General
Chapter, examining the observations and proposals submitted in this
connection by the provincial chapters and individual confreres.
It is considered necessary to make some additions to art. 156 of the
Constitutions, filling certain gaps of a juridical character and detail-
ing more exactly the participation of elected members to the GC.
The modifications approved concern:
1. The participation in the GC of a delegate for every vice-province.
This is a question of filling a juridical gap, in so far as the confreres
of a vice-province have the right to elect their own representative to
the Gc.
2. The participation in the GC of a delegate for every delegation
depending directly on the Rector Major. Also in this case there is
question of the right of confreres to elect their own representative to
the GC. For the delegations with a significantly large number of
members, the possibility is provided for the superiors of such dele-
gations attending the GC as members by right.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
3. A clarification concerning passive voice in elections to the G.C. Art.
156, revised by the SGC, does not in fact specify that those who can
be elected to the GC are limited to the perpetually professed confre-
res of the province concerned. This has to be -made clear in ac-
cordance with the norms of canon law and in harmony with what is
laid down in art. 179,7 of the Constitutions for the provincial chapter.
former text
modified text
405 The following have the right to The following have the right to at-
attend the General Chapter with tend the General Chapter with de-
deliberative vote:
liberative vote:
1. The Rector Major
1. The Rector Major
2. The Rector Majors emeriti
2. The Rector Majors emeriti
3. The members of the Superior
Council, those not confirmed in
office as well as new members
from the time of their election
3. The members of the Superior
Council, those not confirmed in of-
fice as well as the new members
from the time of their election
4. The Procurator General of the
Societv
5. The Moderator of the General
Chapter
4. The Procurator General of the
Society
5. The Moderator of the General
Chapter
6. The provincials, or if thev are
seriously impeded, by permis-
sion of the Rector Major their
vice-provincials; the superiors of
vice-provinces
6. The provincials, or if they are
seriously impeded, by permission of
the Rector Major, their vice-provin-
cials; the superiors of vice-provin-
ces; the superiors of delegations
depending directly on the Rector
Majorwith at least 125 members
7. A delegate of each province
with less than 250 professed
members; two delegates for the
provinces of 250 or more pro-
fessed members.
7. A delegate for each province
with less than 250 professed mem-
bers, two delegates for the provin-
ces of 250 or more professed mem-
bers, a delegate for every vice-pro-
vince and a delegate for every de-
legation depending directly on the
Rector Major,all elected from the
perpetually professed members of
the circumscription concerned.
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art. 164
In this article a juridical lack of precision is corrected, in so far as the 406
term "delegated authority" is not correct. In actual fact the superior
of a vice-province governs in the name of the Rector Major with
"ordinary vicarious authority."
formertext
modified text
At the head of each vice-provin-
ce there is a superior, chosen in
the same way as for a provincial.
He remains in office for six
vears and he governs in the
name of and with the delegated
authority of the Rector Major.
At the head of each vice-province 407
there is a superior, chosen in the
same way as for a provincial. He
remains in office for six years and
he governs with the ordinaryvIcar-
ious authorityofthe Rector Major.
art. 164B.C.D. (new)
The GC2! takes note of t4e fact that there are in existence in the 408
Congregation some delegations depending directly on the Rector
Major, but which, find no mention in the text of the Constitutions
which so far contemplate only delegations depending on a provin-
cial. An addition to the text is therefore needed to accommodate
this new juridical circumscription.
A delegation depending directly on the Rector Major is formed of
one or more communities, and is constituted on the basis of special
reasons of a geographical, political or religious nature. It differs
from a province or a vice-province in so far as it has a superior who
does not govern with ordinary authority, either proper or vicarious,
but with powers delegated by the Rector Major.
The unity of the delegation arises from the particular scope of the
constituent communities, or from the state of emergency in which
the communities are existing, or from other particular reasons.
The special dispositions which regulate the functioning of a delega-
tion are established by the Rector Major in the document of erection,
or in some other document for the purpose.
The GC2! therefore makes the decision to insert into the Constitu-
tions the following new ..articles: one to define the delegation in
17
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
general as a juridical circumscription (and to introduce the suc-
ceeding constitutional articles on delegations at various levels) (art.
164B); two for the delegations depending directly on the Rector
Major (art. 164 C,D).
409 164 B: The delegation is constituted by one or more communities in par-
ticular circumstances, with at its head a superior who governs it with
powers delegated by the Rector Major or by the provincial.
410 164C: When special reasons make it necessary, the Rector Major, with
the consent of his Council, can constitute a delegation, formed by one or
more communities, depending directly on himself.
411 164 D: The superior of the delegation, nominated by the Rector Major with
the consent of his Council, exercises those powers which the Rector
Major shall judge opportune to delegate to him.
2.7 CHAPTERXVIII: Structures of Government at
Provincial level
art. 179
412 Amongst the proposals coming from the provincial chapters and
taken into consideration was one which asks for the application to
the provincial chapter of what the Constitutions, in art. 156,6, pres-
cribe for the case when a provincial is unable for grave reasons to
attend the General Chapter.
The GC21 recognizes in the proposal an opportune addition to art.
179.5, opening the possibility of a substitute for rectors who are
unable for grave reasons to attend the provincial chapter.
formertext
413 The following take part in the
provincial chapter with a delibe-
rative vote:
.....
5. The rectors of each canonic-
ally erected community
modified text
The following take part in the pro-
vincial chapter with a deliberative
vote:
5. The rectors of each canonically
erected community, or if they are
seriously impeded, their vice-rec-
tors, with the previous approval of
the provincial.
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
259
2.8 CHAPTER XIX: Structures
art. 186
of Government
at local level
The GC21 recognizes the desirability of including the bursar among 414
the fixed members of the council of the community.
This follows from the fact that the bursar is the only other confrere at
local level, other than the vice-rector, whose office is described in the
Constitutions (art. 192) whilst the other offices in the local commu-
nities are determined by the provincial chapter (art. 193).
This allows the General Chapter to prescribe at world level the pre-
sence of the bursar in the council of the community, by analogy with
councils at other levels.
formertext
The following are members of
the council:
1. the vice-rector
2. the members responsible for
the principal spheres of activ-
itv...
modified text
The following ,are members of the 415
council:
1. the vice-rector and the bursar;
2. the members responsible for the
principal spheres of activity...
2.9 CHAPT,ERXX: Administration of temporal goods
art. 195, 196
In the verification of the articles of the Constitutions concerning the 416
administration of temporal goods, the General Chapter, on the basis
also of the RRM (282), takes note that there have been erroneous
interpretations of art. 195 and art. 196.
To render more precise the content of these articles, the GC21 has
proceeded to a reformulation of them, by means of which:
a) the fundamental principle expressed in art. 195 is more clearly
emphasized, i.e. that temporal goods are kept in the Congregation
only to the extent in which they are directly useful for educative and
pastoral activity excluding every kind of interest-bearing invest-
~
ment;
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
b) forthis reason the cases of "student burses, legacies for masses,
life annuities and charitable foundations" are transferred to the
following art. 196, because there is question of true economic ope-
rations involving extraordinary administration with burdens at-
tached, even though for charitable purposes, and therefore subject
to the normal need for authorization, and also because they are not
to be considered exceptions to the forbidden interest-bearing in-
vestments;
c) further, in art. 196 for greater clarity:
- the operations of "acquiring and alienating" with the further
qualification "to which onerous or gratuitous terms are at-
tached"have been added to state explicitly what is already implied
in law by these two words, i.e. by "acquiring" is meant both
buying against payment or receiving as a gift, and by "alienating"
is meant both selling against payment or disposing of as a gift;
- the operations "to mortgage, rent or exchange" have also been
added because they are analogous to the preceding, they invest
the property, are regulated by the Code, and hence of their very
nature require authorization;
- finally apart from the fact that the addition of the word" accept"
is merely the correction of a printer's error, there have been
appropriately eliminated, in connection with accepting legacies
and bequests, the words "to which obligations and burdens are
attached" because this limitation is not in the spirit of the article.
former text
modified text
417 195. The Salesian Society. .. .
. """""""
for our works.
The acquiring and keeping of
real estate with the sole object of
producing income is forbidden,
as also every kind of permanent
interest-bearing investment ex-
cept in the case of student bur-
ses, legacies for masses, life an-
nuities, and charitable founda-
tions.
195. The Salesian Society. . . . . . .
.
for our works.
The acquiring and keeping of real
estate with the sole object of pro-
ducing income is forbidden, as also
every kind of permanent
interest-bearing investment.
418 196. To dispose of or acquire 196. To dispose of or acquire real
real estate, to contract loans, estate to which are attached oner-
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REvcrSION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
261
with or without mortgage, to
construct new buildings, demol-
ish existing ones or to bring
about notable changes, to estab-
lish annuities, accept legacies
and bequests to which obliga-
tions and burdens are attached,
the authorization of the Rector
Major and his Council are nec-
essary.
When such authorization is ap-
plied for the application must be
accompanied by adequate doc-
umentation, together with the
statement of the opinion of the
provincial and his council in the
case of a request concerning the
province, and also by that of the
local rector and house council
where a local community is con-
cerned.
ous or gratuitous terms, to mortga-
ge, rent and exchange real es-
tate, to contract loans with or wi-
thout mortgage, to accept legacies
and bequests, establish annuities,
student burses, legacies for Mas-
ses or particular legacies and cha-
ritable foundations, to construct
new buildings, demolish existing
ones or to bring about notable
changes, the authorization of the
Rector Major and his Council are
necessary.
When such authorization is applied
for the application must be accom-
panied by adequate documenta-
tion, together with the statement of
the opinion of the provincial and his
council in the case of a request
concerning the province, and also
by that of the local rector and com-
munity council where a local com-
munity is concerned.
3. MODIFICATIONS TO THE ARTICLES OF THE
REGULATIONS
3.1 CHAPTER I: Evangelization and Catechesis
art. 1 (Commitment to evangelization and catechesis)
The GC21 has made a partial revision of this art 1 of the Regulations 419
for the following reasons:
a) to express better the subjects of the various obligations which in
the former version were laid in general on the provincial community,
and thus to render the article more concrete and practical;
b) to express more adequately the obligation of "evangelization and
catechesis" carried out by our communities.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC2!
former text
modified text
420 The provincial community has
for its purpose to inspire, coor-
dinate and guide apostolic works
to spread the gospel and the
christian faith. It therefore en-
courages an unceasingreapprais-
al of the catechetical work done
bv the community, and reshapes
its activities...
The provincial community has the
task of inspiring, coordinating and
guiding the work of evangelization,
especially through its normal
channels of government and ani-
mation. It therefore encourages a
constant reappraisal of the cate-
chetical aspect of evangelization,
carried out by the individual com-
munities, and reshapes...
3.2 CHAPTERII: Pastoral work for youth
art. 8,9,10 (Our schools)
421 In the verification carried out by the GC21 the importance of the
renewal of salesian schools for the fulfilment of our mission as
evangelizers of the young has been emphasized (d. document: "Sa-
lesians, evangelizers of the young" n. 128-134).
On the other hand an analysis of the articles of the regulations
concerning the school has revealed a certain poverty of content and
some lack of precision in the expressions used.
For this reason it has been considered opportune to revise the text of
the regulations concerned, with the purpose especially of making
more evident some aspects of the salesian style in scholastic activity.
art. 8
former text
modified text
422 Salesian schools, of whatever
kind or purpose, must provide
an education which promotes
the development of the 'whole
person in a christian context.
To this end intellectual, profes-
sional. or technical training
should be integrated with
extra-mural activities.
Salesian schools, of whatever kind,
purpose or level, must provide an
education which fosters the total
christian development of the young
person in the socio-cultural,milieu
in which he lives. In the work of
education carried on in a salesian
style, which leads to a growth in the
faith, our schools strive for a har-
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REvcrsION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
263
monious balance between intel-
lectual and technical training and
extra-curricular activities.
art. 9
former text
modified text
To make pastoral care valid and Our scholastic involvementshould 423
effective our schools should be be based on solid cultural values
distinguished for their high cul- and on recognized technical and
tural values and recognized teaching ability. It should be lived
technical and teaching capacitv. out in a community atmosphere of
Thev should be conducted in a freedom and charity', which reflects
community atmosphere of free- the gospel. This leads to a social
dom and charity reflecting the and missionary awareness towards
gospel. They should also be the'poor and to the formation of
open to the neighborhood for committed young christians.
social activity, further education
for the poorer classes and for the
formation of committed chris-
tians among the voung.
art. 10
former text
modified text
To ensure a continued updating
of our schools, salesians should
encourage within the "educative
community" a constant dialog
concerning the christian and
human values we foster and the
care we have for vocations and
its relationship with the sur-
rounding area.
Salesians should encourage within 424
their own respective school com-
munities an ongoing dialog con-
cerning the human and christian
values to be fostered and the voca-
tional gui.dance offered, and how
they are related within the social
context.
This dialog will ensure that our
schools are always ready for that
constant renewal required of every
salesian educational enterprise.
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CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
art. 14 (Service outside our works)
425 The verification of the work carried out by the confreres in non-sa-
lesian structures, in the sense of art. 30 of the Constitutions has
indicated the need to emphasize on the one hand the coresponsibil-
ity and fraternal participation of the community which sends them
on such activities, and on the other the need for them to be really
inserted into the salesian community.
For this reason an addition to art. 14 of the Regulations is approved:
formertext
modified text
426 For the activity contemplated in
art. 30 of the Constitutions the
salesian community concerned
must obtain the consent of the
provincial and his council, due
regard being paid to the require-
ments of common life and the
work of the community.
Members assigned to such activi-
ties should make sure that they re-
main a real part of the salesian
community, which in its turn will
show a fraternal and coresponsible
interest in their apostolic work.
art. 148 (New article on lay collaborators)
427 On the basis of the more general reasons given for the improvement
of art. 39 of the Constitutions (d. n. 387), the GC21 notes the need of
expressing in an article of the Regulations the commitment of the
salesians to the promotion of shared responsibility with the lay col-
laborators, and to ensure for them an adequate formation to the
salesian spirit (d. also document "Salesians, evangelizers of the
young" n. 69-79).
428 "Lay people chosen to collaborate in our work should be made aware that
they share in the salesian pastoral plan of education. By making use of
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REvcrSION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
265
the most suitable means, the community will assure them of an adequate
formation in the salesian spirit."
3.3 CHAPTERV: The mass media
art. 28
The GC21 has endorsed the importance of the mass media in the 429
service of the evangelizing 'mission of the salesian community.
In this perspective the reformulated art. 28 of the Regulations is
designed to render the norms it contains more concrete and practi-
cal with a view to renewal.
formertext
modified text
In carrying out their apostolate The provincial with his council 430
salesians should lend their sup- shall determine the mode of our
port and skills in the fields of pastoral presence in the field of the
journalism, cinema, radio and mass media, either by preparing
television. For this they should confreres to lend their support and
receive adequate training.
skills in the fields of journalism, ci-
nema, radio and talevision, or even
by organizing such services our-
selves.
3.4 CHAPTER VIII: Prayer
art. 46
The GC21, after examining art. 46 of the Regulations and recalling 431
the interpretation given during the past six years by the Superior
Council, makes the decision to modify the text for the following
reasons:
1. To promote among the confreres a common spiritual culture.
2. To make it easier for the rector to fulfil the task indicated in art.
127 of the Regulations.
Spiritual reading, made in common, can be a helpful instrument for
growth in salesianity and the building up of the community.
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former text
432 Each day there shall be spiritual
reading of some duration. The
way of doing this shall be fixed
bv the Provincial Chapter.
modified text
Each day there shall be spiritual
reading of some duration made in
common.
3.5 CHAPTERX: Poverty
art. 57
433 A juridical lacuna was discovered in this article: the confrere who
cedes the administration of his goods, either before or after profes-
sion, to some person outside the Congregation must inform the
provincial of the goods he has reserved as his own property and of
their condition both at the time of ceding their administration and
periodically afterwards. The lack of this information is the source at
times of serious trouble, especially in the case of sickness or sudden
death of a confrere.
The article has therefore been clarified bv the integration of two
additions to the text.
former text
modified text
434 Before his profession the novice
shall cede, for the entire period
of his vows, the administration
of the goods he possesses to
whomsoever he chooses, and
freely dispose of their use and
proceeds.
Before his profession the novice
shall cede, for the entire period of
his vows, the administration of the
goods he possesses to whomso-
ever he chooses and freely dispose
of their use and proceeds, but
under the express condition that he
will not be involved In the respon-
sibility for managing the same.
Subsequently, with permission
of ,the provincial, he can alter
these arrangements if there is
good reason so to do, and he can
also perform those acts with re-
gard to poverty which the civil
law prescribes.
Subsequently, with permission of
the provincial, he can alter these
arrangements if there is,good rea-
son so to do and he can also per-
form those acts with regard to pov-
erty which the civil law prescribes.
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
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All this applies also to those
goods which may come into his
possession after he has taken his
vows.
All this applies also to those goods
which may come into his 'posses-
sion after he has taken his vows.
Moreover he will from time to time
inform the provincial of the goods
of which he retains the ownership,
and of their condition.
3.6 CHAPTER X B: Obedience
art. 71 B (new)
In the course of the verification carried out by this GC2! emphasis 435
has been laid more than once on the importance of the talk with the
superior, mentioned in art. 96 of the Constitutions.
Attention has been drawn to:
- the usefulness of this talk in connection with the animation of the
community and the exercise of shared responsibilitv;
- the dutv of the rector to be always available to receive and listen
to the confreres; this is directly linked with the priority amongst the
rector's duties in what concerns the ministry of unity and the care of
the salesian identity (d. document "Salesians, evangelizers of the
young": animation of the community n. 46-57);
- the responsibility of every confrere to have a meeting with his
superior for his own good and that of the community.
For these reasons the following article of the Regulations is approv-
ed:
"Let the rector consider as one of his principal duties that of being always 436
available to serve the community, particularly in receiving and listening to
the confreres.
This friendly talk is a privileged moment of dialog; it helps greatly towards
the spiritual growth of the individual confreres and of the community.
In an atmosphere of mutual trust every confrere should frequently see his
rector, to let him know the state of his health, how his apostolate is
proceeding, the difficulties he is facing in his religious life and in fraternal
charity, and of all that may contribute to the welfare of the individual
members and of the community."
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3.7 CHAPTERXI: Formation
437 Various aspects of the verification on formation in the Congregation
during the last six years have led the GC21 to modify some articles of
the Regulations and to introduce an occasional new article to em-
phasize important aspects of salesian formation.
The following modifications and additions to the text are therefore
presented. They are in harmony with the motivations and guide-
lines found in the document on SALESIANFORMATION.
art. 73B (formation communities)
438 "Formation communities are communities expressly set up for the pur-
poses of formation, with a rector and a team of confreres specifically
prepared for the work of formation, above all as regards spiritual direction.
Those responsible for formation and those being formed create in a life
lived in community an atmosphere of coresponsibility in the diversity of
their respective roles. With a clear vision of the aims of formation they
periodically plan and evaluate their work."
art. 73 C
439 "Before the novitiate all candidates must have a period of specific prepa-
ration.
Under ordinary circumstances this period should not be less than six
months and should be passed in a salesian community.
The details for this are laid down in the directory of the province."
art. 81
former text
440 After the novitiate every mem-
ber whether destined to the
priesthood or not, must continue
his formation in a suitable sale-
sian community, preferably a
studentate.
During this period the general
philosophical, theological and
modified text
Immediately after the novitiate,
every member, whether destined
for the priesthood or not, must
continue his formation for at least a
two year period in a formation
community, preferably a studenta-
te.
During this period the general phil-
osophical and pedagogical training
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REvcrSION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
269
pedagogical training shall be
given. Technical, scientific or
professional training can also be
begun or continued with specific
qualifications in view.
shall be given, with an introduction
to theology. Technical, scientific
or professional training can also be
begun or continued with specific
qualifications in view.
art. 88B
"The members who are preparing for the priesthood must receive, over a 441
minimum period of four years, a more intense and specifically priestly
formation in a formation community, preferably a studentate.
During this period they shall attend seriously to theological studies, pref-
ferably in salesian centers.
They must not undertake duties or other studies that will interfere with the
specific purpose of this formative period."
art. 93 Ongoing formation
former text
The work of the members should
be organized in such a way that
they have sufficient time at their
disposal for keeping themselves
up to date. The possibility of
spending a longer period in spir-
itual and pastoral renewal
should be granted to those who
desire it.
modified text
The work of the members should be
organized in such a way that they
have sufficient time at their disposal
for keeping themselves up to date.
442
art. 93B
"Periodically after their perpetual profession all salesians should be 443
given the possibility of spending an appropriate period of time for the
renewal of their pastoral and religious life. In their planning, provinces
should take this need into account. Each confrere should generously
respond to this need of ongoing formation for his own good and that of the
c:ommunity."
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270
CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
3.8 CHAPTERXII: Structures of government at
world level
art. 96
444 In art. 127 of the Regulations, drawn up by the SGC, it is laid down
that the extraordinary six-yearly visitation of the provinces shall be
carried out by the Regional Councillor.
The experience of the past six years has brought to light some diffi-
culties in connection with this practice:
- on the one hand, the practical impossibility-for some vast and
complex regions-for the Regional Councillor himself to be able
to make with proper care the extraordinary visitation of all the
provinces of the Region;
- on the other hand, the danger that the Regional Councillor may
be too absorbed in the juridical obligations of the visitation, and
so lose his proper physiognomy, which is essentially one of union,
of coordination, of animation according to the indications of the
GC19 and of the Constitutions.
It seems that a real distinction should be made between the figure of
the Regional Councillor and that of the Extraordinary Visitor. Per
se the canonical visitation can be made by other members of the
Superior Council or for that matter by "non-Councillors," entrusted
with the task by the Rector Major in accordance with art. 96 of the
Regulations.
For these reasons the GC21 makes the decision that the contents of
art. 127 of the Regulations concerning the extraordinary visitation
shall be duly adapted and integrated with art. 96 of the Regulations
which deals in general with the faculty of the Rector Major to make
personally or through others visitations of the provinces and local
communities.
Art. 96 of the Regulations is therefore amplified as follows:
formertext
445 Personally or through others. the
Rector Major may visit each and
every province and local com-
munity. Whenever the need
arises he may arrange for other
visits, beyond those contemplat-
ed in art. 127.
modified text
Personally or through others, the
Rector MajO( may visit each and
every province and local commun-
ity. Whenever the need arises he
may arrange for other visits.
In particular he will arrange, during
his six year term of office, for an
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REVCISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS
271
extraordinary visitation of every
province. This may be carried out,
as he thinks fit, either by the Re-
gional Councillor or by another vis-
itor delegated by the Rector Major
with all the powers of jurisdiction
required by the nature of the visit
itself.
4. DELIBERATIONS
4.1 Delegate of the Rector Major for Poland
The GC21, after noting the deliberations by which in 1971 the SGC 446
decided that the two provinces of Poland should be confided to a
Delegate of the Rector Major because of the particular situation of
that country, and in view of the fact that the same situation still
continues at the present day, deliberates as follows:
1. To confide the two provinces of Poland to a personal Delegate of the
Rector Major,so as better to provide for the good of the provinces con-
cerned and their linkagewith the Rector Majorand his Council;
2. That the Delegate will have such power and duties as the Rector Major
may wish to bestow on him, and he will be consulted by the Superior
Council when there is question of specific problems of the Polish prov-
inces.
4.2 Constitution of the Region of Asia
The GC21, having considered the difficulties stemming from the
great geographical extension of the so-called "English-speaking"
region and the notable differences between its component prov-
inces, in order the better to provide for the good of the provinces
concerned, and to assure a more adequate link between the prov-
inces and the Rector Major and his Council on the basis of the duties
assigned to the Regional Councillors by art. 144 of the Constitutions,
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272
CHAPTER DOCUMENTS GC21
makes the decision to divide the former "English-speaking" group
into two groups constituted as follows:
Aslan Reglon comprising the Provinces of
- Bombay - Calcutta - Gauhati - Madras - Hong Kong - Philippines Japan -
Thailand
and the Delegations of
- Vietnam South Korea
Engllsh-speaklng Region comprising the Provinces of
- Australia Great Britain - Ireland and South Africa - USA East - USA West.
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CHAPTER
DELIBERATION
Confirmation of the decisions of the SGC
concerning the Faculty granted by the
M.P. Ecclesiae Sanctae II 1,7
18
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CONFIRMATION OF THE DECISIONS OF THE S.G.C.
CONCERNING THE FACULTY GRANTED BY THE
M.P. ECCLESIAE SANCTAE, II, 1,7
447 The Special General Chapter made the following decisions concern-
ing the faculty granted by the Motu Proprio "Ecclesiae Sanctae" (II,
1,7).
I. Faculty given by the M.P. Ecclesiae Sanctae II, 1,7
1) The Motq Proprio Ecclesiae Sanctae','II, 1,6 gives the S.G.C. "the
right to alter, temporarily, certain prescriptions... by way of experi-
ment, provided that the purpose, nature and character of the insti-
tute are safeguarded. Experiments which run counter to common
law-and they should be embarked upon with prudence-will be
readily authorized by the Holy See as the need arises. Such experi-
ments may be continued until the next ordinary General Chapter
which will be empowered to grant a further prolongation, but not
bevond the date of the subsequent Chapter."
2) And no. 7 of the same document adds: "The same facultv is
granted to the General Council for the space of time between the said
Chapters, according to the norms which they themselves shall de-
cide."
3) The object of this faculty obviously embraces the prescriptions of
the old Constitutions which have been incorporated into the new
Constitutions and Regulations, as well as experiments contrarv to
common law, which have been prudently undertaken with the au-
thorization of the Holy See.
In this matter the SPECIAL GENERAL CHAPTER HAS DECIDED
THAT THE EXERCISE OF THE POWER GIVEN BY THE M.P.
"ECCLESIAE SANCTAE" , II, 1,7 NEEDS A DECISION OF THE
SUPERIOR COUNCIL, APPROVED BY AT LEAST 2/3 OF THE
MEMBERS.
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DELIBERATION
275
II. Special powers delegated by the SGC
As far as the other chapter deliberations are concerned, the S.G.c.
AUTHORIZES THE SUPERIOR COUNCIL (under the same condi-
tions as above: 2/3 majority) TO MAKE GOOD ANY EVENTUAL
SERIOUS GAPS IN THE TEXT OF THE NEW CONSTITUTIONS
AND REGULATIONS, FOLLOWING THE SPIRIT OF THE WORK
OF RENEWAL UNDERTAKEN BY THE PRESENT SPECIAL GE-
NERAL CHAPTER. (ASGC nn. 765-766)
The 21st General Chapter reconfirms these decisions of the SGC and
prolongs the faculties referred to in the above paragraphs until the
next ordinary General Chapter.
The constitutional faculty, by which the Rector Major can "for
practical purposes" interpret the Constitutions, remains valid.