Edith Stein in mid-Wales

Thanks to the wonderful zoom technology, I was able to join our valiant group of Secular Carmelites in mid-Wales last night.  Catholics are very few and far between in that area – which indeed is sparsely populated anyway.  This small group is very active – and it is admirable in every way.  It was founded by a Carmelite priest who was posted to the parish for a few years.  It was originally based in the border town of Presteigne, where there had been a monastery of Carmelite Sisters in the past.  We are currently discussing some of Edith Stein’s writing in our monthly meetings.  Coincidentally, more than fifty years ago a Presteigne-based Catholic named Pat Lyne discovered Edith Stein (St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross) and formed a great affection for her.  In her autobiography, Discovering Edith Stein in a Daisy Wreath of Friends, Pat (who died in 2021) tells about her attachment to the German victim of the Hitler regime.  Pat was a world expert on the subject of Connemara ponies and used to judge competitions, and it is fascinating that she combined this interest with devotion to St Teresa Benedicta.  Such is the power of the great saints to fascinate and attract such a variety of souls to Jesus.

Intercessions:

Elara, Siena – infants with severe medical issues

Marie, Agnes, Philippa – cancer

Rosemarie – multiple afflictions

Bernard – cancer, and wife Angela

David C and David E - housebound