The Vatican announced this week that six “Blesseds” will be canonized October 14, 2018 and among them are Pope Paul VI and Archbishop Oscar Romero [a hero for me].

My confirmation namesake St. Thérèse of Lisieux comes to mind when I think of the saints. Confirmed at age 9, I did not grasp the meaning of sainthood. Yet, the saints were always a part of my life. In the past I’d think, why didn’t I choose a stronger role model like Joan of Arc? But, from reading St. Thérèse’s writings, I know she was the right choice for me.

The “Little Way” Thérèse points out through her own struggles is to choose to not only do small things with love, but to also adopt an attitude of “littleness” before God. Humility is a two-edged sword for me, and it’s necessary for my spiritual life. When discerning if God is calling you to be a sister, what attitude do you have before God? Why is a cheerful humility needed for a spiritual life?

Thérèse holds out for us that struggling with life’s difficulties requires a humility born of courage, strength, resolve, generosity, and kindness flowing from love.  Who are the saints you pray to accompany you during discernment of your vocation? We’re all called to holiness and to live out our unique vocations in a way that makes our world a better place.  I’m not called to be St. Thérèse of Lisieux.  I do know that my friendship with God is a call to be transformed into the person God created me to be.

I’m not there yet, but I’m on the way.

May the saints be with you!

Sr. Pat Dowling, Vocation Director