In the Footsteps of St. Louis Marie de Montfort

"Footsteps Online"

Summer 2000 (Volume 5, Issue 2)

Reconciliation - The door to forgiveness and life

Contemplate Montfort's words:

Be converted! Conversion changes our heart ... our whole heart.... be assured that .conversion has been as nothing if change has not taken place in the heart. (Sermon 11)

In a world that at times seems so full of conflict and division among people, Montfort's stress on the quality of tenderness in his own life and writings, should encourage us to think of peace, and even more so, 'to make peace in a spirit of reconciliation.' Reflect on:

  • Matthew 5:4
  • Luke 15:11-32
  • Psalm 72,85,103
  • Montfort A Prophet For Our Times by Benedetta Papasogli (Montfort Press)

Contemplate Marie Louise's life:

While few actual writings of Marie Louise exist several instances and eyewitness accounts are recorded of how she sought reconciliation in her personal life as well as with others and within communities. The qualities of tenderness and gentleness emerge as a way of life for her. Besnard writes of her, 'It was by her tenderness that she gained the confidence of the poor and sick in all the hospitals where she resided and they looked upon her as their Mother.' Reflect on:

  • Wisdom of the Heart, The Story of Marie Louise Trichet By Benedetta Papasogli (Montfort Press)

Reflect on your own life:

Where is reconciliation needed in my life, my family, my community? What words of Jesus speak to my heart? What can I learn from the lives of Montfort and Marie Louise? What prevents me from being reconciled? Can I change my heart?

Let a new day of healing begin!