From a letter of Ignatius to the Jesuits attending the Council of Trent. He gives\u00a0instructions to Jesuits, so that interventions in big assembly can be more fruitful:<\/p>\n
Be slow to speak. Be considerate and kind, especially when it comes to deciding\u00a0on matters under discussion, or about to be discussed in the council.<\/p>\n
Be slow to speak, and only after having first listened quietly, so that you may\u00a0understand the meaning, learnings, and wishes of those who do speak. Thus you\u00a0will better know when to speak and when to be silent.<\/p>\n
When these or other matters are under discussion, I should consider the reasons\u00a0on both sides without showing any attachment to my own opinion, and try to\u00a0avoid bringing dissatisfaction to anyone.<\/p>\n
I should not cite anyone as supporting my opinion, especially if they are persons of\u00a0importance, unless this has been thoroughly arranged beforehand. And I would deal with everyone on an equal basis, never taking sides with anyone.<\/p>\n
If the matters being discussed are of such a nature that you cannot or ought not to be silent, then give your opinion with the greatest possible humility and sincerity, and always end with the words salvo meliori iudicio<\/em> \u2014 with due respect for a better opinion.<\/p>\n
Spend an hour at night when each of you can share with the others what you have done that day and discuss your plans for the following day.<\/p>\n
On one night, let one of you ask the others to correct him in what he may have done amiss, and he who is corrected should make no answer unless he is asked to explain the matter about which he has been corrected. On another night, another will do the same. Thus each one in turn, so that all can be helped unto greater charity and to greater influence in all things.<\/p>\n
Twice during the day make the examen.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Lord, we thank you for the wisdom of Father Ignatius.
\nGrant us\u00a0to listen with an open heart,
\nto understand with an open mind,
\nto speak with humility and sincerity,
\nand grant each one of us the grace of indifference
\nso that in all our works we may be inspired by the Holy Spirit and\u00a0may fulfill your Holy Will.
\nWe ask this through Christ our Lord.<\/p>\nAmen.<\/p>\n