THE RULE, CHARTER, CONSTITUTION, AND CODE OF CANON LAW

FOR THE

ORDER OF THE MOST HOLY MARY THEOTOKOS

"THE OLD CATHOLIC MARIANISTS"

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APPROVED FOR USE

BY

THE MOST REV. DR. ROBERT F. JANGRO, O.SS.T.

PRESIDING ARCHBISHOP / ABBOT & FOUNDER

Every house is founded by someone, but the founder of all is God. (Heb 3:4)

ARTICLES I - XIV

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~ PREAMBLE ~

In gratitude to Almighty God for the gift of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, recognizing Mary as the great symbol of the Church; and believing that, to the glory of God, Catholicism is characterized by three principles, i.e., a tradition that sees God in all things (sacramentality), using the human, the material, and the finite (mediation), to bring about unity of humankind (communion); and believing further that there is a definite need among independently governed churches of the historic Old Catholic faith tradition for an association or Communion to assist them in the performance of said principles: We therefore as autonomous churches, religious communities, congregations, parachurch ministries, clergy, chaplains, and individual members of the laity; declaring our unqualified belief in the entire Word of God written, humbly invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, have covenanted together to form such a Communion. In so doing, we collectively recognize other distinctively Catholic principles to include emphasis on tradition, regard for reason, analogical imagination, and universality, including a both/and rather than an either/or approach to Christian faith and practice.

ARTICLE I

~ NAME ~

The organization shall be known as the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. Also known as "The Old Catholic Marianists", the association or Communion is a self-governing religious community and independent/autocephalous jurisdiction of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church in the Old Catholic faith tradition. The Community is dedicated to promoting devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under her special Orthodox Church title, the Theotokos. Theotokos in Greek means "God-bearer". We honor Mary under that title and seek to live her example of the openness to the will of Almighty God and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. We are dedicated to living our lives as mirrors of the extraordinary dedication, sacrifice, and faith modeled by our most beloved and dear Mother of God. The motto of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is Totus Tuus (It means, "Totally Yours").

ARTICLE II

~ PURPOSE ~

The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos shall serve all God's people. The Order will respond to the needs of the local Church and all the people of God by providing services for a variety of needs in the Church and secular communities. Members accomplish this through a wide variety of loving works of mercy. Members are also encouraged to discern their individual vocation when deciding upon the works of mercy they will perform. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos will also develop and implement special programs in prayer, spirituality, and human development, all of which encourage a deeper relationship with God through devotion to the Holy Theotokos. In consideration of these works, the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos will be formed as an "urban abbey" or "monastery without walls". Our purpose is to:

1. Promote the worship of God and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary among our membership.

2. Deepen and extend the fellowship of our membership.

3. Encourage a steadfast, Biblical witness by our membership.

4. Facilitate cooperation and counsel among our membership with regard to evangelism, edification, Christian education, stewardship, missions, church extension, Christian action, womens and mens fellowships, youth activities, the pastoral ministry, and other related concerns.

5. Preserve and promote the Scriptural principles of the autonomy of the local church and the freedom of the believer in Christ.

ARTICLE III

~ STATEMENT OF FAITH ~

We believe that Jesus is "the Christ", that he is God, and that he is our personal savior.

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We believe in the Holy Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

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We believe that the Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of Jesus, worthy of honor, and worthy of liturgical observance and intercession in prayer.

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We honor the Saints and Martyrs of the Church, and pray for their help.

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We believe in the inerrancy and divine inspiration of Holy Scriptures.

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We believe in the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.

(ONE - with the unity of God Himself, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; HOLY - with the holiness of the Most Holy Trinity; CATHOLIC - living the fullness of divine truth and embracing all faithful Christians of all times and places; and APOSTOLIC - tracing doctrine, traditions, and authority to the original Apostles.)

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We believe in the three historic creeds: Nicene, Apostles, and Athanasian.

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We believe and accept the doctrines of the Seven Early Church Ecumenical Councils of the undivided Catholic Church.

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We believe and appreciate the wisdom and guidance of the Early Church Fathers.

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We believe in the seven sacraments of the Church: Baptism; Confirmation; Holy Eucharist; Anointing and Prayers for the Sick; Confession, Absolution, and Reconciliation; Marriage; and Holy Orders.

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We believe in and hold valid Apostolic Succession of Holy Orders.

(Our Presiding Archbishop / Abbot is a Bishop of the Old Catholic Church and is consecrated in Roman Catholic, Antiochian, Jacobite, Old Catholic, Orthodox, Vilatte, Utrecht, Duart-Costa, Russian Orthodox, Albanian Orthodox, Anglican/Episcopal, Methodist, Armenian Uniate, Chaldean Uniate, Syro-Chaldean, Syrian Malabar, African Orthodox, Celtic, Greek Melchite, Mariavite, Coptic, Order of Corporate Reunion, and Non Juring Bishops of Scotland lines of Apostolic Succession.)

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We believe that all Holy Orders (bishops, priests, and deacons) are open to both men and women, single or married.

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We believe in the sanctity of marriage as a life long commitment between a man and woman, however we also believe that within certain marriages there may be circumstances or conditions that make life within that relationship unbearable or dangerous and thus divorce becomes appropriate or even necessary. Realizing that Jesus is merciful and it is he alone who understands fully the reality of any human decision, the church welcomes to all the sacraments those who have been divorced and/or remarried.

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We believe that all humankind is called to chastity and sexual purity within their state in life.

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We believe that the only proper expression of sexuality is between a man and a woman within the bonds of Holy Matrimony.

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We believe that family planning (contraception) is a personal decision between a husband and wife under the prayerful guidance of the Holy Spirit.

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We believe that all life is sacred and that it must be respected and protected from the moment of conception. We believe that abortion and euthanasia are the taking of human life.

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We believe and follow Scripture in all matters.

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We believe in the Scriptural teachings of Jesus Christ.

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We believe Holy Communion is open to all baptized Christian believers and that all are welcome at Christ's table.

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We believe that the Bread and Wine become the "real presence" of Jesus in the Eucharist.

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We believe that the Gospel commandment to "love others as we love ourselves" is the key to living the Christian life and it manifests itself in global concern for all peoples, patriotism for one's nation, good citizenship, and responsible stewardship of our planet.

ARTICLE IV

~ STATEMENT OF POLITY ~

An Old Catholic Church in name, spirit, and polity.

We believe that Jesus Christ is the Head of His body, the Church universal, and of each local church.

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We believe that each local church is in itself a complete church, and therefore autonomous and possesses all rights and responsibilities of the church by the Holy Spirit as set forth in the Holy Scriptures.

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We believe that Jesus Christ exercises His authority in each local church by the Holy Spirit and through the Holy Scriptures.

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We believe that while each local church remains in communion with the Community and under the spiritual umbrella and ecclesiastical oversight of the Presiding Archbishop / Abbot or Abbess, each local church is still ultimately answerable to Jesus Christ.

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We believe that it is proper and beneficial for each local church to seek fellowship and counsel of other such local churches.

ARTICLE V

~ MEMBERSHIP ~

Any baptized Christian whose faith and ministry perspective is truly both ecumenical (accepting of all who claim the Holy Name of Christ) and Catholic (universal) may make application to join. Candidates desiring to become First Order Monks or Third Order Regular Tertiaries (or Oblates) must be at least eighteen years of age and have the conviction that he/she is called to the Religious Life. There are no age restrictions in becoming a Third Order Secular Companion (or Associate), provided he/she is of an age of discernment that enables them to have a clear understanding of the commitment to be made. Those who have not yet reached their eighteenth birthday must receive parental consent or that of a legal guardian and will submit a letter of consent with the application. Membership in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is open to both men and women, married and single, clergy and laity. (Note: Ordained clergy, of any denomination or jurisdiction, shall obtain their bishop's permission to make application. This shall be indicated by submitting a letter of consent from their bishop with the application.)

Membership in this Community shall be attained by the voluntary association of churches, religious communities, congregations, parachurch ministires, clergy, chaplains, religious, or individual lay members who find themselves in full accord with the Statement of Faith and Statement of Polity (Articles III, IV), the Code of Ethics, and with the general principles of this Community as set forth in this Rule, Charter, Constitution, and Code of Canon Law (hereafter referred to as the "Holy Rule"). Membership may be subject to review by the Abbot's/Abbess' Council. Membership shall be accorded on the basis of the standards of the Community, as set forth in this Holy Rule. Clerical membership shall be accorded on the basis of the approved clerical standards of the Community, as set forth in this Holy Rule. Churches, religious communities, congregations, parachurch ministries, clergy, chaplains, religious, and individual laity are not necessarily barred from membership because of other affiliations so long as they adhere to the Statement of Faith and the Statement of Polity and the workings of the Community.

A church, religious community, congregation, parachurch ministry, cleric, chaplain, religious, or individual lay member may withdraw from membership in this Community at any time by its or his/her own action, and will be removed from the membership when written notice of such action is given to the Abbot/Abbess.

A church, religious community, congregation, parachurch ministry, cleric, chaplain, religious, or individual lay member may be dismissed from membership in this Community for continued inactivity, at the decision of the Abbot/Abbess and the ratification of the Community.

In the event that there is received a written statement that a member church, religious community, congregation, parachurch ministry, cleric, chaplain, religious, or individual lay member has departed from the standards of faith and practice set forth in this Holy Rule or in the Code of Ethics, the Abbot's/Abbess' Council shall make a careful investigation of the matter. If the charge appears to the Council to be justified and is received in accordance with I Timothy 5:19 from at least two or three witnesses, the Council shall report the matter to the Abbot/Abbess and the Community for appropriate action. The right to appeal to the Community by the party accused is presupposed.

The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is dedicated to serving the Church and uses the Ministries of men and women, married and single, adults and children, clergy and laity to attain this goal. The right to admit Candidates belongs to the Abbot/Abbess. Mindful of his/her responsibility to the Church and to the Community, the Abbot/Abbess will, after examination and prayerful consideration, admit only those candidates who exhibit the character and maturity necessary for entering the Religious Life. The character and maturity of applicants should be examined by those having the education and expertise in that field.

Traditionally, orders of monks are referred to as the "First Orders" and those of nuns as the "Second Orders". Some religious orders, such as the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, have "Third Orders" of associated religious members who live in community and follow a rule (called Third Order Religious or Regular, or TOR), or other members who, without living in formal community with the Order, have made a private vow or promise to it, such as of perseverance in pious life, hense are not "religious", that is to say, not members of the Consecrated life (often called Third Order Secular, or TOS). Since all three branches of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos are open to both men and women, we make no distinction in male or female when using the generic term monk, and therefore we have chosen not to have a "Second Order". However, if a female member of the First Order wishes to use the term "nun" rather then "monk", that is permissible. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos consists of three branches:

A. First Order Monks (Ascetics) of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. From the earliest days of the Church, individuals have been compelled by the calling of the Holy Spirit to consecrate themselves to God in a vowed life. As early as the third century, men, and later women, answered that call and bound themselves to a particular community and to a way of life that is now known as monastic. The spiritual pillars of prayer, work, sacred reading (lectio divina), study, meditation, reflection, and contemplation lay at the heart of vowed religious life. There is no time when a Religious is not in the process of "becoming" the vocation he or she has been called to. When the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos speaks of formation, we speak of a lifetime endeavor. There are sign posts along the way. Postulancy normally lasts six months, First Professed one year, and Life Professed, as the name implies, for a lifetime. During each of these periods, there are required readings, reflection papers, study, private prayer, contemplation, meditation, sacred reading (lectio divina), the Divine Offices, and of course, work. Recognizing that we are a "monastery without walls", the formation program is challenging but sensitive to the demands of a contemporary religious life lived outside of cloister. The formation program is designed and tailored according to each individual's circumstance, i.e., life experience, previous religious training, educational background, etc.

B. Third Order Regular (Tertiaries or Oblates) of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. Tertiaries are Christian individuals who have chosen to associate themselves with a religious community in order to enrich their Christian way of life. Tertiaries incorporate the spiritual wisdom and ideals of the Holy Rule of Life as derived from the Gospels, into their lives. Tertiaries seek God by searching for the perfection that he has set before us in Christ Jesus. By integrating their prayer and work, Tertiaries open themselves to and reveal Christ's presence among us. St. Paul tells us that each member of the body of Christ, the Church, has a special function and place in Christ's kingdom. Tertiaries are single and married, men and women, who live in their own homes, and in those homes seek the richness of their calling in the world. Tertiaries seek to bring the world to God by being witnesses of Christ by word and example. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos has designed for each Tertiary a rich and meaningful formation experience as they begin their religious journey. This richness does not come easily and requires an offering of time and study on the part of the Tertiary. Each Tertiary will enter into a formation program that will require prayer, time, reading, and reflection. Progress requires commitment. Recognizing that most Tertiaries have occupations, family, and other responsibilities, the formation program is challenging and yet sensitive to the demands of contemporary life.

(NOTE: The difference between the First Order Monks and the Third Order Regular Tertiaries (or Oblates) lies predominantly in the degree of "profession" they have made in their vows to God. Monks profess the three traditional evangelical monastic vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience; while endeavoring to observe the Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in accordance with the Order's Holy Rule of Life. Monks also entail the Marian Vow of unlimited consecration to Jesus through Mary. While Tertiaries (or Oblates) do not take the three evangelical monastic vows, they commit to the ideal of expressing and living the religious vocation in their outer daily life of family, work, and service through the way of the Order's Holy Rule of Life as an extension of their Baptismal Covenant. Tertiaries (or Oblates) make explicit this essential Marian character in such a way that it becomes the life lived "in the light of the Blessed Virgin Mary". The Regular Tertiaries (or Oblates) are in the full technical sense "religious".

First Order Monks and Third Order Regular Tertiaries (or Oblates) share a common formation program. The three steps of commitment or stages of this formation program are based on the traditional road to full and lifetime acceptance into a religious order in the Catholic faith tradition. Postulancy, First Profession, and Final or Perpetual (Solemn) Profession.

What is difficult in the world is approached with dedication in the monastic life. In his/her spiritual life the O.SS.T. Monk or Tertiary (or Oblate) simply tries to do what every Christian should try to do: to live according to God's commandments. The fundamental principles of monasticism are not different from those of the lives of all the faithful. This is especially apparent in the history of the early Church, before monasticism appeared.

Since O.SS.T. professions reflect a personal and private commitment not unlike that of every Christian, and do not directly deal with many of the community compatibility issues experienced in traditional cloistered monastic orders; the duration of the steps or stages have been truncated to six months, rather than the traditional year or two for postulancy, and one year rather than the traditional three or more years for First Profession. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos has also chosen not to incorporate the "extra" period known as the "Novitiate". In so doing, the candidate can progress through the levels rather quickly and move on to making his/her life-time commitment of prayer to Christ through Mary.

1. The First Stage - That of a Postulant.

One who commits to a discernment period of six months. Candidates, eighteen years of age or older, who have submitted a completed application will be interviewed by the Abbot/Abbess and/or a member of the vocation/formation committee. This interview may be conducted either in person, by telephone, or via the internet. If it is determined that the candidate shows sincere and appropriate reasons for entering religious life, he/she will be accepted as a Postulant. Postulants are members of the Community; however, they have no voting rights but may speak and express opinion. Postulants may not hold any administrative position in the Order.

A Professed member of the Order will be appointed as a Spiritual Director for each Postulant. During the Postulancy period, the formation process will begin under the guidance of the Spiritual Director who will be available to assist the Postulant in his/her spiritual journey. The Abbot/Abbess will also be available to assist the Postulant.

As the Postulancy period progresses, the Postulant continues his/her formation process under the guidance of the Spiritual Director. The Postulant shall follow the prayer schedule of the Order and begin his/her apostolic activities under the direction of the Abbot/Abbess. It is the goal of Postulants to make profession after completing their studies and discernment.

The purpose of the Postulancy is two-fold:

a. For the Order to determine if the candidate has a true vocation;

b. For the candidate to discern if God is calling him/her to the religious life.

Postulants may withdraw from the Postulancy at any time by submitting such a request in a letter to the Abbot/Abbess. Those who withdraw from the Postulancy may choose to leave or remain with the Community as a Third Order Secular Companion.

Upon completion of the six month discernment period and receiving a favorable recommendation, the Abbot/Abbess shall invite the Postulant to make his/her First Profession.

2. The Second Stage - That of a First Professed Member.

One who takes temporary vows, in the presence of the Abbot/Abbess or a designated representative, making him/her a full member of the Order, and who promises to live according to those vows to the best of his/her ability. A Professed member will remain in this stage for a period of not less than one year. At the end of the one year period, the Professed member is expected to take vows to become Life Professed.

Professed members shall fully participate in all activities of the Order with full voting rights and may hold administrative positions in the Order. Once professed, members may wear the complete habit, be addressed as "Brother" (Br.) or "Sister" (Sr.), and follow their name with the initials "O.SS.T." as a sign of their profession in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. (For example: Sister Jane Smith, O.SS.T. or simply, Sr. Smith, O.SS.T.)

3. The Third Stage - That of a Life or Perpetual Professed Member.

One who takes final solemn vows, in the presence of the Abbot/Abbess, or a designated representative. It is preferred that members make their Solemn Profession at the annual Synod/Retreat. However, if this is not possible, the Abbot/Abbess and the member will together work out the details on how this can be accomplished according to each individual's situation.

Members of the First Order are Monks in the true sense of the term and Third Order Regular Tertiaries are in the full technical sense "religious". They are Brothers and Sisters in Christ bound in love by their vows and the living out of the Holy Rule.

C. Contmporary Eremitic Life. The Consecrated Eremitic Life in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos.

In our times the anchoritic life as a distinct form of vocation is almost unheard of. However, an increasing number of Christian faithful feel again a vocation to live the eremitic life, whether in the remote country side or in a city in stricter separation from the world, without having passed through the cenobium first. Bearing in mind that the meaning of the eremitic vocation is the Desert Theology of the Old Testament (i.e. the 40 years wandering in the desert that was meant to bring about a change of heart), it may be said that the desert of the urban hermit is that of the heart, purged through kenosis to be the dwelling place of God alone.

The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos has made provisions concerning those Professed First Order Monks and Third Order Regular Tertiaries who feel called by God to move from the life in Community to the eremitic life, and have the permission of the Abbot/Abbess to do so. They technically remain a member of the Order and thus under obedience to the Abbot/Abbess.

D. Third Order Secular (Companions or Associates) of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. Companions of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos are single and married, men and women, and children, who desire a richer and fuller Christian experience through an association with a religious community. It is the belief of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos that Companions are not third class citizens simply asked to pray and support the Order, but rather individuals who seek a deeper understanding of their baptismal vows and the implications of those vows through the use of the Holy Rule of Life. Companions are an integral part of the religious life of the Order and play an important role in that life. They have associated themselves with the Order and wish to participate in some way in the spiritual life of the community in order to enrich their Christian way of life. Companions shape their lives and seek God by striving to become holy in their chosen way of life.

The purpose of the Third Order Secular (Companions) of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is threefold:

1. To increase faith and devotion to Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the Holy Virgin Mary in our individual lives.

2. To share in the spiritual life of the Community through daily intercessory prayers.

3. To support the activities of the Order. Members of the Third Order Secular will be known as Companions.

Companions strive to live the Holy Rule according to their own life and circumstances. This can best be done in consultation with a pastor, spiritual director, or trusted friend, so that members might avoid, on the one hand, the danger of being unrealistic or overly scrupulous and, on the other hand, the danger of shrinking back from the challenge of Christian growth. We believe this helps each person to grow in the spirit and in their own gifts.

Companions intend to love and serve God through a relationship with the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, adapting to their lives the principles on which all the members of the Community base their common life. As Companions of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, members are committed to centering their lives in the basic values of Christian spirituality.

There are no age restrictions in becoming a Companion of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, provided he/she is of an age of discernment that enables them to have a clear understanding of the commitment to be made.

Companions are members of the Community; however, they have no voting rights but may speak and express opinion. Companions may not hold any administrative position in the Order.

Companions are considered members of the "laity" and therefore do not wear the habit, and are not addressed as "brother" or "sister" but, may use the initials "c/O.SS.T." after their name as a sign of their association with the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos.

Companions may withdraw from the Community at any time by submitting a written request to the Abbot/Abbess.

E. Religious Orders and Holy Orders.

Religious vows are to be distinguished from Holy Orders, the sacrament which bishops, priests, and deacons receive. Hence members of religious orders are not part of the hierarchy, unless they are also ordained priests or deacons (sometimes referred to as "priest-monks"). For more information concerning becoming an Old Catholic Marianist priest or deacon please visit our Ordination/Incardination page.

F. Annual Report.

Each member of the Community shall report his/her apostolic activities, in writing, to the Abbot/Abbess once annually on the anniversary of the member's birthday. The report should include a brief outline of the intended apostolic activities for the coming year.

In addition to the Annual Report, members may decide to include a "Manifestation of Conscience" (or Confession). This is completely voluntary and will be read only by the Abbot/Abbess and then destroyed. This report will be held in the strictest confidence! A "Manifestation of Conscience" should include an overview of spiritual struggles, their effect and the spiritual growth that he/she has gained from them. Each member is reminded that the Abbot/Abbess is always available for spiritual or temporal guidance as well as absolution).

G. The Life of Members.

Members should live in such a manner that those persons who come to know them may, by their example, be brought closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. A member must endeavor to follow the example of our Redeemer with quietness, patience, humility, charity, courage and prayer, knowing that they are not the light, but are only messengers of the One who is the light.

H. The Work of Members as an Apostolate.

The goal of members of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is to promote devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and to glorify God through worldwide apostolic ministry. It is the work of the Order to spread the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ, which has been freely bestowed upon us and to witness to the love of God. This witness is nurtured by a life in conversation with God, and is nourished daily by prayer and meditation while living in the secular world. Also, a member will fully develop those talents given him/her by God (i.e. in liturgy, music, art, education, etc.). He/she shall use these talents to the best of his/her ability. Work, which is a gift from Almighty God, should be offered as a daily sacrifice. All labor, no matter how menial, is precious in God's sight and becomes important and fulfilling when it is offered to the One who enables us to perform it.

I. The Private Devotion of Members.

The official prayer book of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is the Magnificat publication (available at www.magnificat.net) which gives daily morning, evening, and night prayers based on the Psalms and Sacred Scripture, a meditation on Mary, a brief account of the life of a saint, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist which enables the O.SS.T. member to join with all others in the Catholic Faith tradition through spiritual Communion with our priests or actual reception of Holy Communion if the Celebration of the Eucharist is available to them.

While members are encouraged to make use of the Magnificat, use of other personal forms of prayer, prayer books, spiritual readings, etc. is certainly acceptable. Members should also set aside, as a minimum, fifteen minutes each day for meditation and the study of the Holy Scripture and the practice of Lectio Divina.

Lectio Divina is Latin for divine reading, spiritual reading, or "holy reading," and represents a method of prayer and scriptural reading intended to engender communion with the Triune God and to increase in the knowledge of God's Word. It is a way of praying with Scripture that calls one to study, ponder, listen and, finally, pray from God's Word.

All members shall place prayer as their number one priority.

ARTICLE VI

~ ORDINATION/INCARDINATION TO HOLY ORDERS ~

1. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos provides a context for those called to and interested in realizing their participation in the ministerial priesthood of Christ. An aspirant does not have to be a monk to be a priest. A vocation to Orders is one vocation. A vocation to monasticism is yet another. An aspirant may choose to become a Monk, Tertiary (or Oblate), or a Companion (or Associate).

2. We believe that all Holy Orders (bishops, priests, and deacons) are open to both men and women, single or married.

3. Ordination/Incardination to Holy Orders shall be after examination by the Vocations/Formation Committee and upon approval of theAbbot/Abbess.

4. A candidate for ordination/incardination to the Holy Orders within and subsequent ministerial membership in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos will be expected to have a life which is bearing the fruit of the Spirit, and which is marked by deep spirituality and the best of ethical practices. The candidate may be disqualified by any habits or practices in his/her life which do not glorify God in his/her body which belongs to God, or which might cause any brother or sister in Christ to stumble.

5. Every candidate for ordination/incardination is encouraged to first apply for membership as a First Order Monk (Ascetic), a Third Order Regular (Tertiary or Oblate), or a Third Order Secular (Companion or Associate) of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos.

6. We prepare our candidates for ordination in a slightly unusual way, by what is known as the time honored custom of "reading for Holy Orders". All reading for Holy Orders is by distance using available technology.

7. We have patterned clergy training in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos after the ancient practice of the "bishops or abbots schools". In the early medieval period, before general education, universities and seminaries, leaders of Christian communities trained others for ministry to the diaconate and presbyterate/priesthood in a local setting.

8. We have renewed that vision which allows people to train within their local churches and to receive a high quality, academically demanding and professional instruction in ministry. The official seminary of of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is henceforth named "Ave Maria School of Divinity".

9. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos offers those clergy already ordained in valid apostolic succession, a spiritual (non-institutional) network within which they may participate in its charism through incardination, insuring sacramental integrity of administrations flowing from the bishop-priest/deacon relationship.

10. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos also recognizes and welcomes into our midst those clerics who have already been ordained in valid apostolic succession who wish to remain affiliated with and function sacramentally in relationship with their own jurisdictional dioceses/bishops. While these clerics are encouraged to seek incardination with O.SS.T., it is not a requirement for membership in the Order.

11. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos offers bishops already consecrated in valid apostolic succession serving either as a primus or auxiliary the opportunity to serve within the jurisdiction of the O.SS.T. Such bishops may also request incardination for clerics (deacons or priests) currently serving with him or her.

(Bishops seeking incardination with this jurisdiction do so acknowledging the Archbishop / Abbot of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos as primus inter pars.)

NOTE: O.SS.T. clerics may hold dual credentials with another jurisdiction with the approval of the Archbishop-Abbot/Abbess. We will remain a religious community of both lay and ordained.

For more information,visit Ordination/Incardination.

ARTICLE VII

~ RULE ~

The goal of every member of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is to bring "all things together in Christ" and with Christ to build this world, brick by brick so to speak, until Christ takes what we together have built and raises it up to the Almighty Father as the best fruits of our labor. The O.SS.T. member lives a simple Holy Rule of Life which includes prayer, good works, and special dedication to the example of Mary, the Mother of God. Just as Mary was asked by Almighty God to bring his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, into this world, so the O.SS.T. member is dedicated to bring Jesus into this world of ours. All Christians are called to be the "body of Christ" today in the here and now of human existence. Members of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos are called and dedicate themselves in a special way as an act of solemn profession.

A. Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos Holy Rule of Life.

The O.SS.T. Holy Rule of Life has four basic rules to which each member makes at each step of his/her profession (as a Postulant, First Professed, and Solemn Profession):

1. To lead a God-centered life dedicated to the mission of Jesus Christ, as Mary did.

2. To organize his/her life around prayer and good works for the glory of God, as Jesus and Mary did. O.SS.T. members offer to God their daily prayers of reading from the Holy Scriptures, spiritual reading, lives of the saints, and meditation.

The official prayer book of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is the Magnificat publication (available at www.magnificat.net) which gives daily morning, evening, and night prayers based on the Psalms and Sacred Scripture, a meditation on Mary, a brief account of the life of a saint, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist which enables the O.S S.T. member to join with all others in the Catholic Faith tradition through spiritual Communion with our priests or actual reception of Holy Communion if the Celebration of the Eucharist is available to them.

3. To love God's creation, protect it, nurture it and bring it with Jesus to the fulfillment that the Creator intended when he sent his Son, Jesus, to redeem it.

4. To live a life of loving God first, and neighbor as self. The great commandments that Jesus gave us and Mary showed us how to live through her life. Monks, Tertiaries, and Companions share a common bond in living their lives of prayer and good works. The living of the details of this Holy Rule of Life is as unique as each one of us! God's will be done!

B. Monastic Vows. After preparation, each First Order Brother and Sister voluntarily takes the three traditional evangelical monastic vows of POVERTY, CHASTITY, and OBEDIENCE. These three vows are the foundation upon which religious life rests. So closely are these vows knit, that one vow without the others would produce something alien to the monastic experience. Vows continue to be a time honored sign of dedication to God and the spread of the Gospel. These vows are as follows:

1. POVERTY.

Members take a vow of poverty. However, since they live independently they must, of necessity, own some property individually. Married members are required to consider their marriage vows and their families when living within the vow of poverty. Whether married or single, all members must strive to live simply, realizing that what they have is from God and that ownership of these things is merely temporal. Members make a commitment to use their possessions in the service of God by donating a portion of their labor to the Church and the Order.

2. CHASTITY.

Married members must be faithful to their marriage vows. Unmarried members must live completely celibate lives. All must keep themselves pure in body and mind, according to their state in life, as well as being modest, self-disciplined and free from all excesses in order to be free to love others as commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ.

3. OBEDIENCE.

Members owe obedience to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. To the articles of faith contained in Scripture, Creeds, and Tradition of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. The vow of Obedience is the vow of being open to receiving guidance both from the Abbot/Abbess and from each other. Monastic tradition stresses the need for Monks to be obedient to each other, not only to the Abbot/Abbess. Obedience is nothing more than listening to God through one's monastic Community while giving special recognition to the Abbot/Abbess as the Community's expression of Christ as teacher. This is not a slavish obedience but an obedience that seeks as its object perfect humility; the Monk who strives for obedience is one who will listen with pining heart for the whisper of God.

Every member of the O.SS.T. Community shares in the spiritual benefits of the Brothers and Sisters of the First Order who are dedicated to the monastic life by vow. In this way, the entire Order is bound together as a religious community and each member commits themselves to apply monastic principles to their lives.

C. Rights:

Sharing in the prayers and good works of all other O.SS.T. members.

D. Privileges:

After First Profession adding O.SS.T. after your name to proclaim your membership and profession to follow the example of Mary, the Mother of God, in her love and obedience to God the Father and her Son, Jesus Christ.

Invitation to attend the annual Synod/Retreat.

Receiving the quarterly electronic newsletter of the O.SS.T.

E. Obligations:

Live the O.SS.T. Holy Rule of Life to the best of your ability.

Prayer for the intentions of other members of the O.SS.T.

Promote a sense of "community" by actively participating and sharing your lives of prayer and good works through electronic association with other members via the O.SS.T. Members egroup.

Submit the annual report on the anniversary of the member's birthday and maintain at least semi-annual personal one on one contact with the Abbot/Abbess.

Faithfully support the work of this Order and your local church first. Then give gifts and special offerings to other Christian causes, projects, missions, or the needy as God leads you.

Promote membership in the O.SS.T. through word and example within your sphere of influence.

All O.SS.T. Brothers and Sisters are required to designate some place in their home as their prayer space. It can be as simple as a chair in a quiet corner of the room, or as elaborate as a chapel.

ARTICLE VIII

~ HABBIT ~

The wearing of a religious habit is a tradition which dates back to the monastic and missionary practices of the early church. Habits are regarded as being a visible designation of our commitment and community. The habit also serves as a visible sign to the community at large.

Our distinctive modern-looking habit of today has elements which are both practical and symbolic. In the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, the standard habit is the same for both brothers and sisters. Wearing the habit is optional.

The full habit consists of a loose-fitting white alb without a hood, a white knotted monk's rope cincture, a blue scapular (skp'y-lr) or outer panel, a blue capuche (kpooch, -poosh) or hood or long pointed cowl, and the O.SS.T. Gold Marian Pectoral Crucifix Cross. (A rosary or other chaplet may be worn, attached to the Cincture.)

The habit is worn for liturgical celebrations, communal prayer, public events, and community gatherings.

An alternate optional version of the habit, depending on the circumstances, consists of a loose-fitting white alb with or without a hood, a white knotted monk' rope cincture, a blue scapular (sk'y-lr) or outer panel, and the O.SS.T. Gold Marian Pectoral Crucifix Cross. (With this version, the capuche is not worn.) (A rosary or other chaplet may be worn, attached to the Cincture.)

All Professed members of the Order, as well as Companions, are encouraged to wear the street version of the habit which simply consists of the O.SS.T. Gold Marian Pectoral Crucifix Cross worn with their secular clothing.

ARTICLE IX

~ COMMON WORSHIP OF THE ORDER ~

All Brothers and Sisters are expected to maintain the ancient practice of praying the Liturgy of the Hours and shall pray the Morning, Evening, and Night Prayers each day. All Brothers and Sisters are to prayerfully read and ponder the daily Mass lectionary or its equivalent especially the Gospel of our Lord each day. The Magnificat publication, which serves as the official prayer book of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is an excellent resource (available at www.magnificat.net). Brothers and Sisters shall participate in the Celebration of the Eucharist at least weekly, preferably on Sunday, and on major feast days of the Church, and more often if available. Those ordained as Priests or Bishops should make every effort to celebrate the Mass daily. Whenever possible, Brothers and Sisters are encouraged to schedule themselves for a period of weekly Eucharistic Adoration to pray before the very presence of Our Lord. This allows time alone with Jesus to recite favorite prayers, read the bible, contemplate acts of faith, hope, charity, thanksgiving, reparation, pray a rosary or do whatever type of prayerful devotion that suits the participant before Our Lord. One can just sit and say nothing simply keeping him company, just as one would with a dear friend. Companions are encouraged to participate in the common worship of the Order to the extent possible.

ARTICLE X

~ ECCLESIASTICALOVERSIGHT OF THE ORDER ~

I will appoint shepherds for them who will shepherd them so that they need no longer fear and tremble; and none shall be missing, says the Lord. (Jer 23:4)

Every community must have "order". To accomplish this, the Rule outlines ecclesiastical and administrative oversight positions for the good of the Community. Those appointed or elected to oversight positions in the Order shall show no preference to the Monks, Tertiaries, or Companions under their authority. They will lead by their example. They shall instruct and admonish with consistency and compassion. Those called to serve in oversight positions must understand that the Lord will ask for a full accounting of those entrusted to their care. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos establishes the following ecclesiastical and administrative oversight positions for the Community:

A. The Bishop Protector.

The Abbot/Abbess also serves as the Presiding Archbishop of the jurisdiction, and as such, is the the Bishop Protector of the Order.

1. The Abbot/Abbess, in consultation with the Abbot's/Abbess' Council, serves as the ultimate guardian of the Rule, Charter, Constitution, and Code of Cannons and is the final court of appeals for the maintenance of its discipline.

2. The Abbot/Abbess will report to the Abbot's/Abbess' Council from time to time on the work of the Community, and will seek advice and counsel on matters of peculiar significance relating to the Order.

B. The Abbot/Abbess (Superior).

Superior is the generic term, and in some cases the formal title, given to the head of a religious community, monastery, or abbey. The Superior of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, whose title is Abbot/Abbess, derives his/her authority and responsibility from the Holy Spirit, therefore is charismatic in nature, and is fully realized through his/her role as "teacher" and "spiritual father/mother." The Presiding Archbishop / Abbot for the charter community shall be its founder, the Most Reverend Doctor Robert Francis Jangro, O.SS.T. Should the Abbot/Abbess resign or retire, he/she shall first gather the Community for the election of a new Abbot/Abbess. Should the Abbot/Abbess die in office or for some reason is no longer able to perform the duties of the office, the temporary governance of the Community shall devolve upon the Claustral Prior/Prioress, if one has been appointed. If a Claustral Prior/Prioress has not been appointed, the Abbot's/Abbess' Council will assume temporary governance of the Order. In either case, an election will be held as soon as possible to elect a new Abbot/Abbess.

(NOTE: If the Order is unable to elect a suitable Abbot/Abbess who is already a Bishop, then the newly elected Abbot/Abbess, in consulation with the Abbot's/Abbess' Council, shall seek assistance and guidance from other bishops [Preferably from among jurisdictions who have entered into intercommunion agreements with O.SS.T.] who may be willing to serve as Bishop Protector until such time the newly elected Abbot/Abbess can be elevated to the Sacred Office of Bishop.

1. The Abbot/Abbess, in his/her role as Presiding Archbishop of the jurisdiction, shall exercise complete governance of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos. The Abbot/Abbess has full authority to pass decisions upon all current affairs and difficulties. The Abbot/Abbess elected and confirmed, and exercising the duties of his/her office is the Bishop Protector of the Order and the Presiding Archbishop of the jurisdiction. In terms of address, the Abbot/Abbess may be referred to as Presiding Archbishop / Abbot or Abbess. No other jurisdictional Bishop shall supersede, or in any way interfere with the authority of the Abbot/Abbess.

2. Monks, Tertiaries (or Oblates), or Companions (or Associates) who aspire to Holy Orders will be referred to the Vocations/Formations Director for application and formation. Ordination/Incardination by the Abbot/Abbess into the Order shall be at the discretion of the Abbot/Abbess with appropriate consultation with the Vocations/Formations Committee. The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is dedicated to fostering and promoting vocations within the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church and hopes to be a witness and good example to those considering the priesthood or religious life. The entire Community stands ready to support those who wish to persue Holy Orders and will strive in every way possible to bring a love for the church and Jesus Christ and a joyful witness to the priesthood.

3. In all circumstances the Abbot/Abbess shall be a Professed member in Holy Orders (bishop). The Superior's role is to serve and not to be served. Jesus' teaching is holistic. His concern is for that holistic service so vital to human welfare. The Abbot/Abbess must feel the call of God's Holy Spirit, the excitement of a new vision, and the joyful burden of the responsibility. This is the nature of service and sacrifice - the deepest meaning of diakonia.

4. Should it become necessary to seek removal of the Abbot/Abbess, a special Chapter shall be called by the Claustral Prior/Prioress, if one has been appointed, as requested in writing by the general membership of the Order. If a Claustral Prior/Prioress has not been appointed, the Abbot's/Abbess' Council, shall call the special Chapter. If the Chapter elects to remove the Abbot/Abbess, the Abbot's/Abbess' Council will assume temporary governance of the Order. In such case, an election will be held as soon as possible to elect a new Abbot/Abbess.

C. Department Heads and Administrative Officials.

The Abbot/Abbess may from time to time appoint individuals and committees, and delegate to them authority for the efficient functioning of various departments. The Superior is free to dismiss or appoint Department heads or other Administrative Officials as he/she pleases but should avoid the difficulties caused by frequent and unreasonable changes in these offices. Departments may vary from time to time and the same Brother/Sister may hold various offices. The Abbot/Abbess shall decide the question of what offices need to be filled at any particular time. Examples of positions that may be appointed by the Abbot/Abbess include but are not limited to the following:

1. The Claustral Prior/Prioress.

The Claustral Prior/Prioress (Latin prior claustralis), also referred to as the Dean, traditionally holds the first place after the Abbot/Abbess and assists in the government of the Order, functioning effectively as the Superior's second-in-charge. Therefore, the title of Father Prior or Mother Prioress shall be used. The Dean will be a member of the Abbot's/Abbess' Council. In all circumstances the Claustral Prior/Prioress shall be a Professed member in Holy Orders (priest or bishop). When the Claustral Prior/Prioress is a bishop, he/she will also serve as the jurisdiction's Auxiliary Bishop and will be referred to as Bishop Prior or Prioress.

2. The Conventual Prior/Prioress.

The Conventual Prior/Prioress (Latin prior conventualis), also referred to as the Provincial, has authority over an appointed Province or "Priory" (also referred to as a "priory without walls"). Provincials will be addressed as Mother or Father Prior/Prioress if they are in Holy Orders, or Brother or Sister Prior/Prioress if they are not in Holy Orders. One of the principal duties of the Provincials is to act as a mentor to all members in their Province/Priory. All the Provinces of this Community will be under the rule of obedience and shall not be self-governing. Thus, Provincials will act under the direction of the Abbot/Abbess. Provincials will be members of the Abbot's/Abbess' Council. In all circumstances the Conventual Prior/Prioress shall be a Professed member of the Order, and mayor may not be ordained. When the Conventional Prior/Prioress is a Bishop, he/she will also serve as the Province, "Priory", or Diocean Ordinary and will be referred to as Bishop Prior or Prioress. When the Conventional Prior/Prioress is not a Bishop, he/she will also serve as the Province, "Priory", or Diocean Apostolic Administrator.

3. The Vocations/Formation Director (Spiritual Director).

The Vocations/Formation Director (Spiritual Director) of the Order of Mary Theotokos shall have the commission to help aspirants to discern their vocation. The Spiritual Director shall monitor the studies and works of Postulants during their formation. In consultation with the vocations/formation committee, the Vocations/Formations Director shall make recommendations to the Abbot/Abbess on the appropriateness of a candidate's progress and readiness for profession and/or ordination/incardination. The Vocations/Formation Director (Spiritual Director) will be a member of the Abbot's/Abbess' Council. In all circumstances the Vocations/Formation Director shall be a Professed member of the Order, and may be either lay or ordained.

4. Chaplain Confessor.

The Superior may appoint a Chaplain Confessor for the Community. The Chaplain Confessor should be a bishop or priest and may act as confessor and counselor to the members of the Community. In all cases, the Chaplain Confessor shall be a Professed member of the Order and is a member of the Abbot's/Abbess' Council.

5. The Abbots/Abbess Council.

The Abbot/Abbess will confer with the Abbot's/Abbess' Council from time to time and seek their counsel regarding significant issues before the Community. Ultimately, the daily running of the Community is that of the Abbot/Abbess. When a Claustral Prior/Prioress is appointed, many of the routine decisions of the day will devolve to the Claustral Prior/Prioress. He/she will work with the various administrators, chairs, and committees as directed by the Abbot/Abbess. The Abbot's/Abbess' Council can include but is not limited to the Claustral and Conventual Priors/Prioress', the Chaplain Confessor, the Vocations/Formation Director, as well as other special advisors, counselors, and chairs of committees. The number of persons invited to Council is not set and may vary depending on the needs of the Abbot/Abbess and Community.

ARTICLE XI

~ GATHERING OF THE ORDER ~

Communities encompass the physical, mental, and spiritual realms; yet there remains the unrivaled energy of many people gathering in one place. When this happens, the possibilities for change and growth are limitless. Great ideas, healing networks, and new friendships emerge when the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos assembles in Chapter. The Chapter consists of all members of the Community who are Professed, and all have the right to be summoned to every meeting of the Chapter and to speak and to vote as outlined in the Constitution. All shall have one equal vote. Postulants, as well as Companions, may be seated and have voice, however, those not professed may not vote. The Order shall meet in common once each year with the Abbot/Abbess in General Chapter. These meetings will normally be held in conjunction with the annual Synod/Retreat. All Brothers and Sisters should make every effort to attend the General Chapter of the Order. It is at these meetings that Brothers and Sisters will make their solemn professions, take their monastic vows, receive the laying on of hands for Holy Orders, and seek the blessing of and instruction from, the Abbot/Abbess. Of course with the physical distance that separates us, those whose attendance will create a hardship shall be excused. The Abbot/Abbess may summon the Chapter more frequently if necessary.

The Chapter is required to vote on issues that impact the whole Community and those placed before them by the Abbot/Abbess. Amendments to the Rule, Charter, Constitution, and Code of Cannon Law shall require a simple majority of Chapter. There must be no unauthorized disclosure of the proceedings of the Chapter. The Abbot/Abbess may wish to inform members of the Community who are not members of the Chapter of certain discussions and decisions of the Chapter. He/she may delegate this responsibility to another member of the Chapter.

Minutes of all meetings shall be carefully recorded and distributed by electronic form from the Superior to the Chapter. It is important that the Minutes to Chapter be archived in a safe place. The setting of the agenda is the responsibility of the Abbot/Abbess. The Community should be given the opportunity to add important points of discussion to the agenda. Meetings of the Chapter shall be opened in a manner of ordinary business meetings. The Superior shall normally preside at Chapter meetings. In the absence of the Abbot/Abbess, the Dean or Claustral Prior/Prioress shall preside. If this position is not filled, the Abbot/Abbess will appoint a moderator.

Where Provinces are formed, the Conventional Priors/Prioress' or Provincials may conduct Province gatherings from time to time as needed to attend to special business. The Abbot/Abbess shall be invited to attend and advise the gatherings.

The most important way in which the members of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos stay connected is through corporate prayer. Whether we are together or apart, we are united in heart and spirit through the prayerful recitation of the Divine Offices. This connection is continued in our private prayer life as we pray for our Monks, Tertiaries, and Companions, wherever they may be. We also live in an era of technological advances and wonders with a variety of hardware for use in keeping us connected. Frequent letters, emails, telephone calls, and faxes are all invaluable aids to communication between Religious and between Religious and their Superior. All new members of the Community are assigned a mentor or Spiritual Director so that they have a primary contact when the inevitable questions and concerns arise. In addition, the new member will take part in the Order's formation process and will be in constant contact with his/her Spiritual Director as they learn "the ropes" of Religious life. All members associate and share their lives of prayer and good works through electronic association with other members in the O.SS.T. egroup and website.

ARTICLE XII

~ FINANCES ~

There is to be no per-capita assessment, apportionment, or dues levied by this jurisdiction upon the membership. The churches, religious communities, congregations, parachurch ministires, clergy, chaplains, religious, and individual lay members are expected to assume voluntarily a share in the financial support of the General Fund of the Order. This does not preclude fees for services such as an application fee.

All financial matters of the Community are under the control of the Abbot/Abbess. The Abbot/Abbess, in conjunction with the Council and Chapter leaders, shall develop a plan for the distribution of the Order's funds to Chapter functions and activities of the Order .

ARTICLE XIII

~ OFFICIAL RECORDS ~

All records of the Order's business in the hands of O.SS.T. officials are the property of the Order, contents of which must be made available to authorized jurisdictional officials upon request, and which must be delivered to the Order upon termination of the service of officials. The Abbot's/Abbess' residence/urban abbey is the official repository of all official records dealing with the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos.

ARTICLE XIV

~ CANONICITY ~

The Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is an Independent/Autocephalous Catholic ecumenical religious order and jurisdiction, where Old Catholic heritage comes alive. The Order is under the Ecclesiastical oversight of the Presiding Archbishop / Abbot.

SUBMUSSION

I, the undersigned Presiding Archbishop / Abbot and Founder of the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos ratify this Rule, Charter, Constitution, and Code of Cannon Law as updated and amended while assembled at Chapter during the First Annual O.SS.T. Synod/Retreat in Atlanta, Georgia on this fifteenth day of August in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Dom ++Robert,O.SS.T.

The Most Reverend Doctor Robert F. Jangro, O.SS.T.

Presiding Archbishop / Abbot & Founder