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Communities which are entirely dedicated to contemplation, so
that their members in solitude and silence, with constant prayer and
penance willingly undertaken, occupy themselves with God alone,
retain at all times, no matter how pressing the needs of the active
apostolate may be, an honorable place in the Mystical Body of
Christ, whose "members do not all have the same function" (Rom.
12:4). For these offer to God a sacrifice of praise which is
outstanding. Moreover the manifold results of their holiness lends
luster to the people of God which is inspired by their example and
which gains new members by their apostolate which is as effective as it
is hidden. Thus they are revealed to be a glory of the Church and a
well-spring of heavenly graces. Nevertheless their manner of living
should be revised according to the principles and criteria of adaptation
and renewal mentioned above. However their withdrawal from the world
and the exercises proper to the contemplative life should be preserved
with the utmost care.
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