Watanabe Sado (1913-1996) Tokyo. Stencil print on rice paper.Hangs in the Gathering Place at the entrance to Sacred Heart Chapel at Saint Benedict’s Monastery, St. Joseph, MN
Today is the Feast of All Saints, known and unknown. And as Catholics might say, Canonized and uncanonized. Nadia Bolz-Weber, author of a book I have just finished (more on that in another post) would likely say, all of us. It is a wonderful day to remember all those who have gone before us, people of faith, doing their best, some shining brighter than others, giving us hope and encouragement along our way.
A friend posted an comment on All Saints Day on her facebook page today, saying St. Germaine Cousin was her favorite. I have only recently discovered St. Germaine. My physical therapists asked if I knew of a patron saint for their profession. After some searching, I found the Franciscans had given St. Germaine that honor, though she is more often referred to as the patron of abused children.
One of my favorite saints is Benedict of Nursia. His Rule has been a guide for spiritual seekers every generation since it was written in the early sixth century. I first came under the Benedictine influence when my middle daughter attended the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University in Collegeville, MN. From the first time I entered the large abbey church on the campus of Saint John’s and listened to a homily that welcomed all and felt the warmth of Benedictine hospitality to the present, I have found inspiration and encouragement in the Benedictine way.
Later, I myself took classes at Saint John’s School of Theology and spent a year at the Collegeville Institute for Ecumenical & Cultural Research there. During those times, I treasured the opportunity to join the monks and sometimes the sisters at Mass and in the Liturgy of the Hours. Now, I try to read and meditate on a bit of Benedict’s rule each day. (I use the book, “The Rule of Benedict: A Spirituality for the 21st Century” by Joan Chittister as my guide.) Do you have a saint who speaks deeply to your heart? Share with us!
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