Vocation
“A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people” – Pope Frances
“All those who have heard and understood the call of Christ: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me,” ought to know that the basis for imitating Christ is self-denial and the fulfilling of God’s will; Therefore, direct all your love to God and in God’s love, sanctify yourselves; – the more wholly and willingly you will commit yourselves to God, the more wholly you will receive His love; – the more you will deny yourselves the more closer you will be to Jesus and shall advance on the way to holiness”.
– Bl. Edmund
“Before departure (for religious life), a candidate came to say farewell. She asked for the book, “The Imitation of Christ” to be given to her as a gift. This was the best choice of subject, for how can one begin the journey without such a guide. I asked her if her magnanimous decision was made after deep discernment and if she felt capable of persevering (…) Instead of giving an answer, her eyes were filled with tears, but in her eyes one could see the vitality of a young heart ready for self-sacrifice, and a meaningful smile provided evidence for her interior peace and discernment. (…) I gave her a book and a picture portraying Christ Our Savior surrounded by little children, on which it was written: “Blessed are the clean of heart, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (…) I said farewell and blessed her, being deeply moved at heart and having tears in my eyes”.
– Bl. Edmund
Thank God humbly for the grace of His holy inspiration. May this holy fire of God’s love glow more brightly and ardently in your heart so that no difficulties, nor your waiting, nor anything in the world would lessen the zeal of your heart in this pious endeavor”.
– Bl. Edmund
“Through Mary to Jesus”
