Where most men work for degrees after their names, we work for one before our names: ‘saint.’ It a more difficult degree to attain. It takes a lifetime, and you don’t get your diploma until you’re dead.
–Mother Angelica (1923-1916)
Be not afraid to tell Jesus that you love Him; even though it be without feeling, this is the way to oblige Him to help you, and carry you like a little child too feeble to walk.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
In times of aridity, when I am incapable of praying or practicing virtue, I seek little opportunities, mere trifles, to give pleasure to Jesus. For instance, a smile, a pleasant word when inclined to be silent and to show weariness. If I find no opportunities, I at least tell Him again and again that I love Him, that is not difficult and it keeps alive the fire in my heart. Even though this fire of love might seem extinct, I would still throw little straws upon the embers and I am certain that it would rekindle.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
Prayer is truly a heavenly armor, and is alone can keep safe those who have dedicated themselves to God. Prayer is the common medicine for purifying ourselves from the passions, for hindering sin and curing our faults. Prayer is an inexhaustible treasure, an unruffled harbor, the foundation of serenity,the root and mother of myriads of blessings.
–Saint Nektarios of Aegina (1846-1920)
Have confidence in prayer. It is the unfailing power which God has given us. By means of it you will obtain the salvation of the dear souls whom God has given you and all your loved ones. “Ask and you shall receive,” Our Lord said. Be yourself with the good Lord.
–Saint Peter Julian Eymard (1811-1868)
As my prayer became more attentive and inward I had less and less to say. I finally became completely silent. I started to listen – which is even the further removed from speaking. I first thought that praying entailed speaking. I then learnt that praying is hearing, not merely being silent. This is how it is. To pray does not mean to listen to oneself speaking. Prayer involves becoming silent, and being silent, and waiting until God is heard.
–Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855)
