Today (The Triumph of the Cross, also known as The Exaltation of the Cross) and tomorrow (Our Lady of Sorrows) are very special holy days for our Passionist Congregation. (Historical evidence of the Finding of the True Cross found here.)  The Liturgy is so elaborate. The celebration so rich. The prayer so mystical.

On this Solemnity of the Triumph of the Cross I thought I would share with you the reflection given Friday night at the prayer service during Sr. Mary Dolores' visitation. It was written and read by Msgr. Bernard Powers.

Sister Mary Dolores and the Mystery of the Cross

The Cross for her was the wisdom of the saints.. She was immersed in this wisdom

The Cross for her was the road to holiness.... She walked this road faithfully

The Cross for her was God’s greatest manifestation of love She embraced this love graciously

The Cross was the very gift of God himself... She graciously accepted her God, her Beloved.

The Cross was the School of prayer She humbly learned the art of prayer;

The Cross was union with God She knew an espousal union

The Cross was a mystery to continually remembered She lived in constant recollection

The Cross was the center of her vocational call. She made her life a living response to this call

The Cross was at the heart of her prayer She knelt daily at the foot of the Cross

The Cross was a living flame of love within her She had a burning desire for God

The Cross was a gift on the day of profession She took a life time to open and live this gift

The Cross was power and strength. She found here victory in spiritual combat

The Cross was a transforming spirit within She knew surrender.... submission.... unconditional yes.

The Cross was a fountain of nourishment She drank deeply of sacrificial love

The Cross was a pledge of resurrection She lived in high hope

The Cross was Jesus loving the Eternal Father She was caught up in filial love

The Cross was a precious treasure found She gave all to possess it.

The Cross was for Sister Mary Dolores a silent act of adoration a constant hymn of praise a persistent cry for mercy a espousal love that captured her heart.

The Cross is the Bridegroom, Jesus, the Crucified Spouse bringing his Beloved Sister Mary Dolores to the wedding banquet of the Resurrection.

                                    Msgr Bernard Powers