Newsletter - 12 October
Dear brothers and sisters,
We are currently in a time of “in-between Teresian period”, that is a fortnight separating the feasts of the little Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, celebrated on 1 October and of Saint Teresa of Avila, on 15 October. There is a special grace to receive during this period.
These two saints were both Carmelites and have a lot in common: first of all, they were both strong-willed women. The little Therese was determined that her calling was from God and had to fight before being admitted to the convent. She even pleaded her case with the Pope and was finally admitted to the convent. The other Teresa founded a large number of monasteries sometimes at the cost of numerous risks and perils, and thanks to her dedication and perseverance, the Carmel was reformed. In addition, both are doctors of the church, meaning they have something to teach us, not only in what they have written but also by the testimony and example of their actual lives. Finally, they both wrote a lot of correspondence, which is a treasure and source of inspiration for the church today.
At the same time, they were different in many ways and had different itineraries. On the one hand, Saint Therese of the Child Jesus entered the convent very young and passed away after a few years, while receiving a good understanding of God’s ways. She was constantly aware of her weakness and frailties and was sure that every step, even the smallest one, is precious for the Lord. On the other hand, Saint Teresa of Avila had a serious encounter with the Lord at the age of 40. She was an experienced Carmelite, embracing life and the question of the reformation of the Carmelites with all its challenges and complexity. She travelled a lot and was not afraid of facing difficult situations with courage despite her poor health. She wrote more than letters and is the author of masterpieces such as the Interior Castle or the Way of Perfection.
As we celebrate these two saints, we could entrust to their intercession something specific: our prayer experience, or difficulty to surrender to the Lord, or difficulties of giving up certain sinful habits… Let us give thanks to the Lord for having us such great saints and helpers on our faith journey.
Happy Teresian feasts to you all.
Fr Pascal
Focus of the week
INCLUSIVE MASS
There will be an Inclusive Mass at Christ the King on Saturday, 18 October at 3pm.
Everyone is welcome, especially those who have learning disabilities and their friends and relatives.
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