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Writings of the Saints and Holy Men and
Women
Saint Therese of Lisieux
I have included the marvellous document
of Pope John Paul II entitled "Divini Amoris
Scientia"(1997) on the occasion of naming
Saint Therese a Doctor of the Church. It is a good starting place for those who
are not too familiar with her life and writings. The "Little Way" is
the inspiration for the members to live lives of holiness, following her
example.
Maria Valtorta
However, most
remarkably, a Catholic lay woman of our day -- Maria Valtorta and her prolific
writings -- have had a major impact upon the members of the Communities. I
cannot overstate this reality which has so influenced the minds and hearts of
the members. The Gospels come alive with meaning and insight into the people and
places surrounding Jesus. The imagery associated with the events in the life of
Jesus are like a beautiful painting that can be admired continually for its
nuances and beauty. Because of copyright restrictions I cannot place any
extractions of text. However, there are some Websites which give good access to
her writings.
Padre Pio
I would also like to single out the
spiritual direction in the letters (Volume 2) of Padre Pio (to be beatified this year)
which clearly and simply explain the fundamentals of the spiritual journey for
all souls who aspire to heroic charity. He highlights the "dark Night"
of a soul's purification in a fresh light. On this page I have posted Letters 29
and 33.
There are many others who could be
mentioned: Saint Faustina and the Devotion to the Divine Mercy; Luisa Picarreta
and the devotion to the Divine Will; just to name a few of the Catholic
devotions upheld by the members of the Order in their personal piety.
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