Saints On Our Faith Journey

Deacon Judy in front of the statue of St. Teresa of Avila

During our Celtic pilgrimage, we were in search of Celtic saints, those early Christians who preserved the faith and inspired generations to follow the loving, serving way of Jesus in the Celtic lands of Ireland and Brittany.

This week we remember two saints who also inspire and guide us on our pilgrimage of transformation.

On October 18 we remember St. Luke, the physician and writer of the Gospel according to Luke and the Book of Acts. Luke traveled with Paul. He never met Jesus but was so impressed by Jesus’ life and works that Luke wanted Gentiles to know Jesus and to know how the Holy Spirit inspired the early church to continue to follow the Way of Love.

Luke’s gospel gives insight to the many beloved women in Jesus’ life. He includes six miracles and eighteen parables not noted in the other gospels. Luke’s gospel provides a full and rich picture of Jesus birth, earthly ministry, death, and resurrection. The Book of Acts ever encourages us as we witness the power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of all who follow Jesus.

On October 15 we remember St. Teresa of Avila, one of my favorite saints. She was the powerful example of contemplation and action.

Her writings in The Interior Castle explore the many dwelling places of the soul, her own spiritual deepening through prayer, ascending toward God and descending into the soul to find an intimate union with God. She journeys within to empty herself to center totally on God.

Teresa began as a Carmelite nun, but wanted more asceticism. She founded the “discalced” Carmelite order, nuns who wore sandals or went barefoot as they ministered to others. She established and managed 17 convents throughout Spain in the 16th century.

Her famous saying is “Let nothing disturb you…. God alone is enough.”

May all these saints inspire us as we deepen our relationship with God on our own spiritual journey.

God’s peace,

Judy Q+