the rule of life 68 Sacrament of the Altar, you will humbly kiss the ground, adoring the Lord of Heaven and Earth really present, and worthily giving thanks for so admirable a memorial. 4. May silence — the custodian of blessed recollection — be continuous among you, especially in the chapel, the sacristy, the dining room and in other places designated for the community. After the evening blessing17 and before the morning blessing, no one is allowed to say anything. If anyone should need to speak to another, let it be done with the Superior’s permission. He should precede his words with, “Blessed be God!” and the other replying, “Forever!” You will speak in a more subdued voice to the bishops or any Superiors — venerating Christ in them — having first asked for their blessing. 5. Each day, you will spend two hours in meditation. Each month, taking turns one after another, you will make a retreat — which we call “Spiritual Exercises.” We do not wish to have the Superiors exempt from this unless they are prevented from doing so by their duties. It will be the Superiors’ duty to be certain that someone is continually on retreat, with all fervor praying the Divine Goodness on behalf of the Roman Catholic Church, Christian leaders, the Order, the house, benefactors and the dead. 6. So that you will be mindful of your vocation, and avid for the rewards prepared for those who loyally struggle until death, each day renew your vows privately before the Blessed Sacrament. 7. Any of the novices after entrance — and as well before profession — as well as those to be ordained, will diligently spend at least two weeks apart in their cell in private retreat.18 The time will be spent in assiduous mental and vocal prayer, in a general examination of conscience, and in considering their calling. 8. Lest you also be disturbed by outsiders, the door of the house will always be kept locked. No one is allowed to bring in anyone from the outside without the Superior’s permission, nor 17 This is the blessing given by the Superior at the end of Night Prayer. 18 “In private retreat” is not in the Latin, but is implied.
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