When it comes to the saints, I’m drawn to those whose lives resemble mine. I can’t always figure out what Jesus would do. However, among the 8,000-plus saints, blesseds and venerables, there’s always someone suitable to my present need. Some remain friends for life.
When I was eight, a Catholic neighbor gave me a tiny prayer book with a picture of the Little Flower, St. Therèse of Lisieux. Later, I read Therèse’s “Story of a Soul.” Her thoughts on serving God in little ways stayed with me. I named this column after her. I often turn to her when I’m sick and feeling useless.
While I was still a Protestant, I read Phyllis McGinley’s delightful book “Saint Watching.” She introduced me to St. Margaret of Scotland. Margaret is one of the few happily married saints I know. Her love for her family, the Church and the poor inspire me. My Nana was also a Scot named Margaret, which I figure gives me an edge with this saint.
My conversion to Catholicism hurt and upset some friends and relatives. “Apologia Pro Vita Sua” by John Henry Newman strengthened me. Newman was a professor and Anglican priest whose “defection” to Rome angered many in England. I particularly value his defense of Catholic practices not specifically mentioned in the Bible. The church beatified Cardinal Newman in 2010, but I was asking for his prayers long before that.
The Christian writer who has most influenced me is C.S. Lewis. He is best known today for his children’s books, the “Chronicles of Narnia.” However, it was his books for adults, such as “Mere Christianity,” that most helped me understand my faith. As an Anglican, Lewis isn’t eligible for Catholic canonization. Nonetheless, this lifelong fan regularly turns to him for inspiration and intercession.
Like most Hawaii Catholics, I cherish Father Damien and Mother Marianne. They are our saints in such a special way that asking for their help feels like asking family.
Our newest saints have arrived just in time. I turn 70 this month, and 70 feels so much older than 69. I’ll need extra saintly support for this next decade, and these two popes are perfect for the job.
Angelo Roncalli became Pope John XXIII precisely because he was old. The electors saw him as a short-term transitional figure. However, his call for a Second Vatican Council transformed the modern church. I ask him to pray that I can still serve even as I become less physically active.
One story about this humble man tickles me. In his first days as pope, John had trouble sleeping because he worried about doing a good job. He relaxed after the Holy Spirit told him to stop taking himself so seriously. His evening prayer became, “It’s your church, Lord. I’m going to bed.” I’m stealing that prayer to remind myself that whatever I’m worried about can safely be left in God’s care.
I liked and admired Pope John Paul II from the beginning, but I came to love him as he aged. The man who was so active could hardly move. The friendly face was distorted by Parkinson’s. But John Paul kept on. I don’t disparage Pope Benedict’s decision to retire, but I revere John Paul’s decision to remain on the job. I ask him to pray that I, too, will face physical trials with humility, patience and cheerfulness.
God is so big, he sometimes feels unreal. The saints, on the other hand, are very real. They’re people-sized lenses through whom we glimpse the Lord we love and share. And we don’t need to wait for heaven to enjoy their company.
Kathleen welcomes comments. Send them to Kathleen Choi, 1706 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo, HI 96720, or e-mail: kathchoi@hawaii.rr.com.