July

Inspired by Angela Merici

 

Recently I had the privilege of making a pilgrimage to Italy. Without a doubt, the highlight of the trip for me was visiting the lands of Angela Merici.

We saw her birthplace, Le Grezze, the house where she lived, her mat and the pillow on which she slept, the simple table with one straight chair, a crucifix. Her life was stripped of everything but the essentials.

 

Reflection:

            What clutters my life?
            Of what do I need to be stripped?
            What would help me to focus on God alone as Angela did?

The next day we traveled to the sanctuary of Saint Angela. A whole flood of emotions swept over me as I entered the chapel and saw the tiny body of Saint Angela in her glass casket. She is a woman small in stature but great in personality and in her love for God and for God’s people. Her single-heartedness, her contemplative presence, and her commitment to service have inspired men and women to gospel living for almost 500 years.

 

Reflection:

            How does Angela inspire me?
            How do I live contemplation in action?
            What gifts have I been given and how do I use them in the service of God’s people?

Because she was deeply rooted in prayer and so attuned to the movements of the Holy Spirit within, Angela had the courage to found a company of women different from other religious congregations. Her conviction was so strong that she held on to her belief in spite of opposition from Church leaders and others around her. Out of Angela’s prayer and deep love of God, the Company was born.

 

Reflection:

            When have I been so sure of my convictions that I had to stand alone to achieve them?
            Do I plan the details of my life with a closed mind or do I listen in openness to the nudges of God and respond with courage?
           Angela’s love was available to all those around her. How do I share love with the people in my life?

 

Prayer:

Saint Angela, Woman of Action with a contemplative heart, help us to live with your spirit of love and your desire for service. May we have a “great and longing heart” that listens deeply to the voice of God within and that responds generously to the call of God for service in our daily life. Amen.