If a sister who has been frequently corrected for some fault, and even excommunicated, does not amend, let a harsher correction be applied, that is, let the punishment of the rod be administered. But if she still does not reform or perhaps (which God forbid) even rises up in pride and wants to defend her conduct, then let the Abbess do what a wise physician would do. Having used applications, the ointments of exhortation, the medicines of the Holy Scriptures, finally the cautery of excommunication and of the strokes of the rod, if she sees that her efforts are of no avail, let her apply a still greater remedy, her own prayers and those of all the others, that the Lord, who can do all things may restore health to the sister who is sick. But if she is not healed even in this way, then let the Abbess use the knife of amputation, according to the Apostle's words, "Expel the evil one from your midst" (1 Cor. 5:13), and again, "If the faithless one departs, let her depart" (1 Cor. 7:15) lest one diseased sheep contaminate the whole flock.

In modern America the issue is less a matter of the Church expelling than the communicant leaving.

Our churches reflect American consumer culture and appeal to a variety of micro-markets. This is, in part, why the United States continues to be such a religiously vibrant nation.

Consumers expect to be served and satisfied. Too often we choose to leave communities of faith if our expectations are challenged.

Benedict emphasizes the extreme measures that should be undertaken to keep a member within the community.

Both our communities - and our individual spiritual growth - would be stronger if we show similar persistence in committing to a community.