September 15: Our Lady of Sorrows, Patroness of our Congregation and our Monastery

 “I recommend to you a strong, constant devotion to Mary, our most holy and sorrowful virgin.  Think often of her and sympathize with her in her sufferings.  Then, this loving mother, who is never outdone in kindness will in turn comfort you.

Pour out your heart to her.  Speak to her of your trials and your needs.  Commend your family to her, and the important concern of your soul. . . . How much we cost her! . . . She chose that her own beloved Son should die bleeding on the cross rather than that we should be forever lost."

(From a letter of Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, CP)

September 14: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

"When you pick up the crucifix to kiss it and offer acts of love, cast yourself into the great sea of God's love as soon as you have finished your devotion.  In pure faith and without images, enter through the door of the most pure heart of Jesus.  Within that great Holy of Holies, throw everything into the bottomless abyss of God's endless charity.  Rise up to the contemplation of God's infinite greatness, beauty and riches." (St. Paul of the Cross)