Dear friends of Fr. Benedict,

From Trinity Retreat

When Bernadette was dying of the very painful tuberculosis of the bone, she was asked if she wanted to go to the spring at Lourdes, which was by that time immensely popular. She said no, the spring was not for her. Our Lady had told her years before, “I cannot promise you happiness in this world but eternal happiness in heaven.”
After she entered the Sisters of Charity at Nevers, Bernadette never returned to the shrine; she never sought a cure for herself, although many of the cures were of people with medical situations similar to her own. She remained a selfless person all her life. Why was she chosen? Which one of us can understand the depths of a simple soul? Who understands how even a child can be totally dedicated to God and chosen like the Blessed Mother to do His work?
As I am struggling with my mashed arm and other symptoms as a result of my accident, I can only think of Bernadette and the message she has to give. I would like to go to Lourdes, but I won’t. Like Bernadette, I don’t think the spring is for me. I don’t know why I think that, but I do.
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Father, I am happy to hear that you are progressing well. I pray for you daily. I just finished for about the fifth time your 4-tape series based on the talks you gave in Florida at the time of the Challenger accident. It was very inspiring. The most important wisdom that you provided to me was the idea of discipleship and the difference between discipleship and being a churchman. After listing to your talk, I realized that I was more of churchman then a disciple. Your talk has inspired and changed me. When you stated that many catholics don't read the Gospels enough, you are right. Even though I have read the New Testament, I never really READ the Gospels. You said to start reading the Gospels with Mark. When I got home I immediately read the entire Gospel of Mark and then I continued with Mathew, Mark, and finished with John. Now I am about to finish the entire New Testament again. You were absolutely correct, in the Gospels, our catholic faith, with the inspiring words of Jesus Christ is all there. There absolutely can be no doubt as to why God's only begotten son, born of the Blessed Virgin Mary, came to this earth, to save us, and to lead us by his example. Father, I am a soldier, I have been in the Army for 27 years, and I have seen many horrible things, but God has protected me, and has given me the grace to overcome. He has also given me the grace to lead my soldiers by a Christian Catholic example. Again Father you have inspired me to study and have a greater understanding of the faith. Thank you, may God grant you the grace to bear your daily cross. Very Respectfully - Bede, Maine

I had planned to watch you on EWTN, Wednesday evening at 5:00, requesting that my Guardian Angel remind me of the time. I was very disappointed with my Guardian Angel because the evening got away with me and I missed seeing you. Later that evening my family had gone to bed, I worked on my computer later than usual, being a bit tired but not ready for sleep I decided to watch EWTN before I slipped into bed, not my usual habit. And guess what? There you were on TV to my surprise. My Guardian Angel didn't forget me after all. Much thanks to you for your suffering combined with your prayers. God Bless you Father B. - Michele, Nevada

Dear Fr. Benedict, It's been so long since I've been able to come here and say hello. I'm a home-care nurse, and usually have a lot of paperwork to do when I get home. I'm planning on watching you on the repeat of EWTN Live Sunday evening...I'm glad you're discussing Bernadette. She's my confirmation Saint, and I love her simplicity dearly. When life gets too complicated, I think of her calm acceptance of God's will, and I remember what's really important! Love to all, - Barbara, Michigan

Bernadette is the first saint to be photographed. There is a wonderful book, 'Bernadette Speaks' by Rene Laurentin. It is full of stories about Bernadette and her blunders/faults guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. She is my patron saint, and Saint Therese is my Confirmation name saint. I'm SO blessed!! Continued prayers and thanksgiving for your recovery. - Lorraine, Oregon

My Dear Fr. Groeschel, God's blessings to you now and always! When I found out you were hit by a car I was living in Tampa,FL... I was so devastated, and prayed that God wouldn't take you away from so many of us who need you. Guess in one way that's very selfish, but, you helped me return to the Church after being away for 15 yrs. I will never forget that, and will continue to pray for you. If I could have one session with you, just to sit and discuss a few things, that would be a great blessing to me. I know you're a very busy man, doing God's work, but I'll still pray that one day I would have the honor and privilege of speaking with you. - Patty, Texas

Send your greetings to Fr. Benedict

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