Statute 57

1Concerning virgins and widows. Hands shall not be laid upon virgins, because this is not a commandment from God; it concerns a person’s character. The virgin does not do this out of contempt for marriage, but in order to have time for the service of God.

2Concerning widows. Hands shall not be laid upon a widow unless she lives alone; unless her husband has been dead for many years and she has been a widow for a long time; unless she has lived industriously and no accusation is found against her; unless she has been able to order the men of her own household properly, like Judith; and unless she has loved all good things, like Judith. Then she shall be admitted—that is, ordained—into the Order of Widows.

3If her husband has been dead only a short time, and not a long time, she shall not be trusted or admitted into the Order of Widows. Instead, she shall continue for a long time in good works, fasting, and prayer, remaining apart so that she may patiently subdue herself. Indeed, neither the horse nor the mule is controlled except by a strong rein.

4Concerning male virgins. Male virgins shall not be ordained as such, because this comes solely from the will of the heart, through the grace of God and the love of Christ Jesus. For when the Holy Spirit makes his dwelling with a man, that man receives grace and healing. He is known by the grace he possesses, which will become known to everyone.

5If such a man has a call to the work of ministry, so that he should be ordained bishop, presbyter, or deacon, hands shall be laid upon him.