Family in Feast and Feria

This week is I will have minimal blogging (and energy) as I'm taking Level 1 training of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

This class is such a blessing, and I'm really, really enjoying it all. More thoughts later when I have time, except for this little tidbit.

One of the things that excites me most is that Mother Superior of the Missionaries of Charity (Mother Teresa's order) decided that her sisters need to learn this catechesis method, and sent 10 of her sisters to take this training class. These sisters are missionaries in different parts of the United States, and their nationalities are from all over the world.

What a blessing to all of us to have their presence! And since my son is there on the premises with me (babysitting services, but he's with his cousins), he's witnessing these sisters, also. They are making a huge impression on him.

These sisters came under obedience. They have not read, researched, or done anything about Montessori or this Catechesis previously. During the introductions one even said "I'm taking Level I training, whatever Level 1 and Catechesis might be!" Even without prior knowledge they have quickly managed to get to the heart of the method so easily and directly. Listening to their questions and observations one can almost see the Holy Spirit at work! It is just so beautiful to hear their thoughts.

Today we heard of a mother who delivered prematurely; her baby is only about 2 pounds. The instructor asked the sisters what prayer would they say, and they explained that Mother Teresa taught them that when something came up that couldn't "wait" for a nine-day novena, they do a "Flying Novena" -- 9 Memorares -- and then a prayer of Thanksgiving assuming that the prayer was answered. So we all prayed 9 Memorares, and then a Glory Be.

I had just told a friend this weekend that I pray the 9 Memorares very frequently for all the special intentions on the 4Real Learning board, especially when I lie awake in the middle of the night and can't sleep. It was so wonderful to actually pray with the sisters this prayer tradition.

My bed beckons....