Exaltation of the Cross 2012

\”Do not be afraid to welcome the cross of Christ into your life! It gives full value and meaning to life\’s joys and sorrows, helping every person to make his own life a gift of love for God and neighbor.\” –Blessed Pope John Paul II 

Today we celebrate the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. Today also begins our monastic fast–which lasts from September 14 until Easter. Fasting is done at each sister\’s discretion (we don\’t just serve bread and water for meals!), but we usually have some corporate fasting as well, such as giving up dessert. Giving up dessert may seem like a small thing to do, when we want to do big and spectacular things for God, but we each do what we can. And little things add up to a lot! Think of St. Therese and all her \”little\” sacrifices which cost her so much! We especially feel the need for extra prayer and sacrifice with all that is going on in our nation and in the world today. We hope you will join us today in trying to give up some little attachment, or some little indulgence, or even some \”little\” sin–it will make a big difference, in your life and in the life of the world!