Many years ago I was privileged to meet Mother Mary Garson (1921-2007), foundress of the wonderful Benedictine Grace and Compassion Sisters in 1959. This Order is dedicated to the care of the elderly, and it has homes both in the UK and in other countries. I was thinking of her today because it is the Feast of All the Carmelite Saints, a recollection of all those unsung Carmelite heroes who have not been raised to the altars. I discovered today that Mother Mary was a convert from Scottish Presbyterianism in her 20s. Although she was not one of our unsung Carmelite saints, she is surely one of those uncanonised multitude of saints that populate the Church’s history – such was her passionate devotion to the cause of the elderly. Her life is particularly worthy of note at a time when we are discussing legislation regarding Assisted Suicide. The Homes she established have chapels and mass and that is such a grace for Catholics struggling with the disabilities of old age – and they are the perfect example of an approach to the traumas of old age that favours care rather than killing.
Intercessions
Bernard – cancer, and wife Angela
Siena – infant with severe medical issues
Rosemarie – multiple afflictions
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