Semper Op

Will of Mysterium Crucis is looking for "a website dedicated to explaining all of the different orders (Jesuit, Dominican, Franciscan, Carmelite, etc.) ... a solid comparative overview."

I find that jokes are more helpful than solid overviews in understanding the differences. In keeping with my personal motto of semper opifer, I offer this old chestnut:

During a Eucharistic Congress, a number of priests from different orders are gathered in a church for Vespers. While they are praying, a fuse blows and all the lights go out.

The Benedictines continue praying from memory, without missing a beat.

The Jesuits begin to discuss whether the blown fuse means they are dispensed from the obligation to pray Vespers.

The Franciscans compose a song of praise for God's gift of darkness.

The Dominicans revisit their ongoing debate on light as a signification of the transmission of divine knowledge.

The Carmelites fall into silence and slow, steady breathing.

The parish priest, who is hosting the others, goes to the basement and replaces the fuse.

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