CSSS

1. Every Chapter shall be opened with a celebration of the Eucharist to invoke the guidance of the Holy Spirit, all members present being assembled, if possible, in the Choir of the Church, vested in habits and surplices, but the Master, as Principal Celebrant, shall be fully vested. The Chapter Mass shall always be a concelebrated Mass. At this Mass the Companions shall make their offerings for the work of the Congregation, as at monthly Conferences. The reception of new members and the renewal of the Companions' promises shall take place during the celebration, as provided in the Order for the Chapter Mass.

2. Shortly after the Mass, the members of the Chapter shall reassemble in Choir, still wearing their habits. Then all kneeling, the Litany of the Congregation shall be said, led by a Companion appointed by the Master.

3. The following order shall be observed in the proceedings of the Chapter:

(a) The report of the Master, should he have additional remarks other than his
annual address to the Congregation, which may take the place of the homily in
the Order of the Chapter Mass (q.v.).
(b) The reading of the minutes of the last Chapter, and the Secretary's report.
(c) The report of the Treasurer.
(d) The report of the Wardens.
(e) The report of the Trustees.
(f) The report of the Censors.
(g) The report of Committees.
(h) The report of the Director of Associates.
(i) Unfinished business.
(j) New business.
(j) The election of officers.

4. The business of the Chapter having been concluded, all shall kneel, and the Master shall lead the following devotions:

Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Our Father in heaven ..........

V. Show your servants your works, 0 Lord.
R. And your splendor to their children.
V. May the graciousness of the Lord our God be upon us;
R. Prosper the work of our hands; prosper our handiwork.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Let us pray.

0 God, you manifest in your servants the signs of your presence: send forth upon us the Spirit of love, that in companionship with your Son our Savior and with one another, your abounding grace may increase among us. Through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

5. The Father Master shall designate some time during the period of the General Chapter and Retreat of the Congregation for the Recollection of the Rule.