October 29, 1955
Dear Kathy,
I hope you and Mini are doing well! I am so happy we are now penpals. It’s wonderful to think of you, even now that you are back in America. I hope you took a little bit of Switzerland with you—and maybe also a little bit of me!
This letter, I wanted to tell you about my little prayer book, which is very dear to me. It isn’t just any book—it’s the one I use every day. The cover is decorated with beautiful Edelweiss flowers, a symbol of our Swiss mountains. I think you would love them; they are strong little flowers that survive high in the Alps, just like how we look to stay strong in our faith. The title reads, Andenken an die HI. Firmung, meaning “In Remembrance of Holy Confirmation.” I received it on my Confirmation day, and it has been precious to me ever since. There’s a tiny Mother of Pearl cross on the cover, and inside are prayers that help me feel closer to Jesus and Mary, especially in difficult moments. When I open it, I feel peace, as though Jesus and Our Lady are near. There’s even a little clasp to keep it closed, like a treasure chest for my prayers.
One prayer that I treasure in it is the “Act of Consecration to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.” It is a beautiful prayer we often say here. Mary, the Mother of Perpetual Help, is someone we turn to in all our troubles. We ask her to guide us, to hold our worries, and to be there, especially when we feel weakest. In this prayer, we also ask St. Alphonsus to help us stay close to Jesus and Mary. It feels as if we are giving Mary our hopes and troubles, knowing she will keep us safe and guide us.
I hope this prayer brings you comfort too, Kathy. Imagine her gentle protection, like a warm Mother’s embrace. And please remember, I am here for you too, even from far away!
Please write me again soon—I can’t wait to hear from you!
With much love,
Vreni
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