My Patroness(es) - 1 of 3

This is the first in a series of three posts on some important women in my life--my three patronesses. Each will contain a picture I've taken pertaining to her, followed by a personal story, ending with a quote from her.

First up:

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

(Statue at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception)

Mother Teresa was (is) my confirmation saint. At the time, I was running from God and wanted to pick a saint who was married and had children--I desperately wanted a husband and children. None of the wonderful, married saints were standing out to me though. I read through a majority of "Lives of the Saints"... volumes 1 and 2. But nothing was standing out. I had always loved Mother Teresa and her love and compassion for Christ and others. So, I cut a deal with God. ...I know, not the smartest thing to do. But I did. I said that either I would take Mother Teresa if I could, otherwise a married saint. I was told I could take her, since she had been declared "Blessed." Still not 100% sure if that was accurate, but I did it. I took Mother Teresa as my patroness. Reading her writings and knowing she's praying for me is so comforting and encouraging.


Whenever Jesus asks something of you, say "yes."


Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, pray for us.



In Christ through Mary.

Visiting the Sisters

We had no classes on Wednesday, so I took the opportunity to go to Lincoln, Nebraska and spend some time with the School Sisters of Christ the King. I left Tuesday night, getting there just in time for evening prayer, benediction, and dinner. After dinner, I went for a walk with the novices and took my camera along.  the property behind them had a big fire, nearly reaching the Sister's property. The sisters were even mentioned in the Lincoln Star. The real story? The novices had gone to look out and see how close the fire was when John, their groundsman, came by in his truck. He offered the sisters to get in the bed of the truck and drive them back to see the fire. Apparently, someone saw them and told the paper.

 

From the Sister's back fence, a look off into the grass

that was spared and on into the burnt horizon.

The sisters look out over the fence during our walk of the grounds.

 

The sunsets behind the Villa Regina Motherhouse.

"I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!" -Luke 12:49

As I posted the pictures and added the comments, I couldn't help but think of this verse. It was on the back of our Totus Tuus shirts last year... How beautiful that image is--the entire earth, all people, all nations, all creation, ablaze with a deep love for Christ! Are you on fire? Have you let the flame of His love consume you and your heart this Lent?

In Christ through Mary.