THE PRACTICE OF THE MONTHLY VIRTUES GENERAL PREAMBLE
The prime factor in the formation of a person, is to desire earnestly, sincerely and perseveringly to become holy, and like unto Jesus Christ. It is beyond human comprehension, however, to practice always all the virtues of Jesus Christ. Therefore the Rule has wisely prescribed that the imitation of Jesus Christ be divided into twelve monthly virtues, thus rendering the practice of the virtues less difficult. "Every month they shall have one of these virtues especially for their aim, in order that they may the better bring it into practice, and exercise it more in detail. .." (Rule 403.)
First of all you must have a proper knowledge of the virtue of the month. In the beginning of the month, therefore, read something concerning the respective virtues, e. g., the chapter on the practice of the monthly virtue, preferably from the True Spouse of Jesus by St. Alphonsus; or once a week at least, make your spiritual reading on this virtue; also, listen attentively to the daily readings.
You must put the virtue of the month into practice. Therefore, make "fitting resolutions." (Rule 3.) Though resolutions are indicated in this chapter for every virtue, this should not deter you from choosing other resolutions, that appear more "fitting," better adapted to your needs, or recommended by your confessor. Form such resolutions as seem to suit you best, and which will help you more effectually to combat your predominant fault and your pet passion. Determine these resolutions in the beginning of the month, write them down and ask your confessor's blessing on them. Each morning at meditation when making the general intention: "I wish to become a saint!" renew also the particular resolutions concerning the monthly virtues.
A genuine Christian must at all times look to Jesus as his most beautiful exemplar. Do so also in the practice of the monthly virtues. Consider how Jesus practiced the monthly virtue:
- Monday: in the Crib
- Tuesday: at Nazareth
- Wednesday: in His public life
- Thursday: in the Blessed Sacrament
- Friday: in His sorrowful Passion
- Saturday: in the company of Mary
- Sunday: consider the reward to be gained in heaven for the practice of the monthly virtue.
Often during the day beg of Jesus, through the intercession of the entire Heavenly Court, especially of the most Blessed Virgin, of St. Joseph, of St. Alphonsus, and of the patron of the month, for the grace to become more and more like unto Him.
Make use of invocations of this kind:
- January: "Jesus, Author and Finisher of our Faith, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- February: "Jesus, model and lover of Hope, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- March: "Jesus, model and lover of charity, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- April: "Jesus, model and lover of fraternal charity, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- May: "Jesus, model and lover of poverty, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- June: "Jesus, model and lover of chastity, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- July: "Jesus, model and lover of obedience, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- August: "Jesus, model and lover of meekness and humility, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- September: "Jesus, model and lover of mortification, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- October: "Jesus, model and lover of recollection, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- November: "Jesus, model and lover of prayer, make my heart like unto Yours!"
- December: "Jesus, model and lover of self denial and love of the cross, make my heart like unto Yours!"