“The nation doesn’t simply need what we have. It needs what we are.” St. Edith Stein
Does America need more incredible athletes? Does America need more attractive models and movie stars? Does America need more “Tech Gurus”? America needs Saints!! We need men and women who know and love Christ and transmit this love in spite of personal, heavy crosses. I think of the 10 moms I know who are currently supporting a downs syndrome, autistic or special needs child (including my sister in law!), all with a great spirit of Faith and huge generosity. I think of a 13 year old boy who is suffering from a displaced jaw and is constant pain 24/7 (unable to take pain medication) but he is not complaining and he is praying for strength. I think of a mother of 4 children who has been bed ridden in a dark room for the past month due to a serious concussion sustained from a car accident (she is praying the rosary and quietly trying to offer this up). I think of the countless people with cancer and health problems, “tough marriages” and really difficult human relation issues, who are patiently enduring this with love. As a priest, I see a lot of suffering and this list is just a small sampling. These are the Saints, these are the modern day martyrs, these are the ones who radiate the peace and joy of Christ! It is incredible how much good just one holy person can do!
