One day of each month is specifically dedicated to reflection on our eternal salvation. In the retreat we consider the end for which we were created. We make a diligent examination of the preceding month, and we conclude the retreat with firm resolutions for the coming month, commending our soul to God to obtain a happy death.
Fidelity to the monthly retreat is one of the best indications of spiritual fervor, because it assures fidelity to duty and to the program drawn up at the spiritual exercises. The monthly retreat is ordinarily held on the first Sunday of the month.
On Saturday afternoon there is a meditation and an instruction, as well as the Way of the Cross or the Eucharistic Hour of Adoration. The following morning, a meditation is given and there is confession.
The order may be changed: giving one meditation in the evening and the second meditation and instruction the following morning, with the close of the retreat at noon. It is beneficial for one meditation to be on the eternal truths, and for the instruction to be on the duties of one’s state in life; the last reflection is to be on prayer (the Sacraments, devotions, practices of piety, etc.).
If a priest does not guide the monthly retreat, each one may make it privately, following a similar schedule, with the same practices, using the books most recommended.
It is very important to make a monthly examination on one’s particular resolution. Profitable dispositions are a profound spirit of humility joined to a lively hope in the mercy of God, who calls us to sanctity: “God chose us in him (Christ) before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him” (Eph l:4). Monthly retreat and the Eucharistic Hour of Adoration is a holy way to begin the month.