St. Therese

St. Therese of Lisieux, doctor of the Church, is an extraordinary saint who can be a great friend to you no matter what your profession of faith. Her heart's desire was to continue doing good on earth even after she died at age twenty-four. The Story of a Soul, her autobiography, is a priceless treasure full of wisdom and spiritual insight.  Therese said this about peace:

"May today there be peace within.

May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be content knowing you are a child of God.

Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.

It is there for each and every one of us."

Here's a gem she shared in her autobiography that has brought me immense peace:

"After Holy Communion one day He made me understand the significance of these words in the Canticle of Canticles: 'Draw me: we will run after Thee to the odour of Thy ointments.' So, Jesus, there is no need to say: In drawing me, draw also the souls I love. The simple words "Draw me" are enough! When a soul has been captivated by the intoxicating odour of Your ointments, she cannot run alone. Every soul she loves is drawn after her--a natural consequence of her being drawn to You."

In other words, when the Lord draws us closer to Him, our friends, children, husband, siblings, and parents are in turn drawn to Him.

Grace & peace,
Sheila