Dear Diary,
Today, despite the frigid cold gripping our little farm at a sharp minus 9 degrees, warmth found its way into our hearts. Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I ventured early to St. Mary’s. Robert suggested we bring Mini along in his warm pickup, and she, understanding perfectly, howled with joy—a sound she reserves for truly happy occasions.
At church, though the attendance was sparse due to the cold, Father LeRoy delivered a particularly moving homily, inspired by the heroic acts of perseverance by Father Ciszek and Father Victor, detailed in a meditation we all pondered upon. These brave souls, amidst the harsh conditions of the Ural mountains, where they were imprisoned for 23 years in Soviet camps, still found ways to celebrate Mass. They memorized the prayers and used the natural cathedral of the forest, or the quiet of their barracks, to hold onto their faith fiercely. The history of their captivity and unwavering spirit in such dire circumstances made their story not just a tale of survival, but a profound testimony to their faith and dedication.
Father LeRoy’s words drew a vivid picture of their secret, sacred acts—celebrating Mass on a tree stump or quietly across from one another on their barrack beds, always wary of observers. This meditation on their resilience resonated deeply with me, especially as we sat in our own small sanctuary, warmed by our shared faith and community.
Returning home to the warmth of our stove, I tended to Omelette and the other chickens, ensuring they had fresh water and were well cared for in this biting cold. Omelette, ever the companion, chose the warmth of her nest by the stove to lay her egg, a simple yet profound joy in these frosty days.
Sister Mary Claire and I spent the afternoon engrossed in assembling my scrapbook. The fancy scissors she recently found at the thrift store made the experience even more delightful. It’s moments like these, cutting through past memories and piecing them together, that remind me of how we craft our continuance through faith and love, much like the priests in their secluded servitude.
Heavenly Father, in the silence of this winter night, we thank You for the enduring spirit You instilled in Father Ciszek, Father Victor, and all those who maintain their faith in the face of immense trials. May their stories inspire us to cherish and uphold the sacred traditions You have entrusted to us, finding our altars in the wilderness of our trials. Grant us the strength to persevere and the wisdom to see Your providence in every piece of bread and every sip of wine, no matter where we are. Amen.
With a heart full of reflection and gratitude, Kathy
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