Letter on Prayer

Second Day of Advent

December 2, 1955

Dear Diary,

This morning was another bitterly cold one. Sister Mary Claire and I bundled up tightly in our parkas and scarves, with Mini staying home in her warm little bed. As we walked to St. Mary’s, we were joined by a neighbor, Mr. O’Malley, who chatted with us about his plans for the Advent season. The crunch of gravel beneath our boots and the frosty air made it feel like winter had truly settled in.

Mass at St. Mary’s was beautiful, as always. Father LeRoy spoke about the importance of prayer and how it’s meant to be a personal conversation with God. His homily touched my heart, but it also made me think about how I sometimes struggle to pray deeply.

On the way home, Mr. O’Malley parted ways with us, and Sister Mary Claire took the opportunity to explain more about what Father LeRoy had said. She told me that prayer doesn’t have to be perfect or rehearsed—it should be as natural as talking to a friend. She encouraged me to share my joys and worries with God, to thank Him for the blessings of the day, and to ask for His guidance when I’m unsure. Her words made prayer feel less daunting and more like a gift I can give and receive each day.

For lunch, Sister made grilled cheese sandwiches with ketchup and a crisp lettuce salad. She used our old cast-iron skillet to toast the sandwiches just right—golden and crunchy outside, gooey and warm inside.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich (1955 Style):

Two slices of white bread

Two slices of American cheese (or cheddar)
Butter (softened)
Sister buttered one side of each slice of bread generously. She placed a slice of cheese between the unbuttered sides, then toasted the sandwich in the skillet over medium heat until the bread was crisp and golden, flipping once. We dipped ours in a little ketchup—so simple and so delicious.

The evening was peaceful. After finishing our chores, Sister Mary Clare and I sat in front of the fireplace with Mini curled up near the warm hearth. We prayed together, thanking God for His blessings and asking for His guidance during this season of Advent. Mini let out a little sigh as if she, too, was grateful for the quiet warmth of the evening.

"Lord, thank You for the blessings of this day—for the chance to attend Mass, for Father LeRoy’s guidance, and for the love of Sister Mary Claire and Mini. Teach me to come to You in prayer with my whole heart, sharing my joys, my struggles, and my gratitude. Help me to see Your presence in everything I do. Amen."

Goodnight, Dear Diary.

First Sunday of Advent

 
December 1st, 1955  

First Sunday of Advent!

 

Dear Diary,


Today marked the beginning of Advent, a season that fills my heart with hope and longing. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I braved the frosty morning and walked together to Holy Mass at St. Mary’s. The world seemed wrapped in a cold embrace, with the gravel road glistening under the early sun. Bundled tightly in our scarves, coats, and gloves, we made our way through the chill, feeling the anticipation of Christmas slowly building in the air.

Father LeRoy’s homily was inspiring, reflecting on preparing our hearts for Christ’s coming. After Mass, Mini happily greeted the parishioners as they left the church. She’s such a joy to have around!

Back home, we warmed up with bowls of Sister’s delicious chili soup, its rich aroma filling the house. She explained that the nourishment of Holy Communion works much like the soup — it strengthens and sustains us, but on a much deeper level. Just as food fuels the body, the Eucharist strengthens the soul, helping us to persevere in generosity and overcome our weaknesses.

In the afternoon, Sister and I carried in more firewood for the week. The crisp air nipped at my cheeks, but I felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing the warmth we’d enjoy later was a fruit of our labor.

As we sat together by the fire, Sister continued her lesson from yesterday about generosity and the role of Communion. She used such gentle words to explain that while the desire to be good is important, it’s not enough on its own. Communion helps strengthen our will and guides us toward the selflessness Jesus modeled so perfectly. Her words stayed with me, and I silently resolved to make frequent Holy Communion a part of my own journey toward becoming more generous.

Chili Soup Recipe (from Sister Mary Claire)

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

2. Stir in the tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce.

3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve hot with crackers or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Evening Prayer

Blessed Jesus, so full of generous love, make my heart more like your  heart. Thank You for the strength You offer me in the Eucharist and for the chance to begin again every day. Help me, dear Lord, to persevere in becoming more selfless, to follow Your example, and to open my heart to others. Thank You for the warmth of family, friends, and faith this Advent season. Amen.

Goodnight, dear Diary. 

The fire is warm, and Mini is curled up beside me, ready for sleep. I feel blessed tonight.

With love, Kathy