Carmelite Sister Reflections

Discalced Carmelite spirituality is embodied in the life and writings of Sts Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Thérèse of Lisieux, Edith Stein and many others.

The feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. This traditional devotion which has existed since the twelfth century is popular all over the world, and like many Irish people, I have memories of the “family rosary” being recited at home each evening when I was a child. Of course, Mary the Mother of Jesus, never prayed the rosary in the way that we do now. However, she is our example of a “Living Rosary”, as expressed so beautifully by Pope John Paul II in his 2002 Apostolic Letter “Rosarium Virginis Mariae”: The memories of Jesus, impressed upon her heart, were always with her, leading her to reflect on the various moments of her life at her Son's side. In a way those memories were to be the “rosary” which she recited uninterruptedly throughout her earthly life.Reflecting on this passage gives me great encouragement in my own prayer life, as I often find it difficult to concentrate during my formal recitation of the rosary. Like Mary, all of us who strive to live close to Jesus will have a collection of memories and many “ups and downs” in life’s journey. Throughout an average day, I find myself pondering so many things that can become my personal “Mysteries of the Rosary of Life” if I ponder them alongside Jesus. Sometimes I might ponder “distressing mysteries” and ask God where he is in these situations. Other times I might be absorbed in “excited mysteries” as I think about an upcoming event, and I can share this excitement with the Lord. What if all the routine tasks of every day (getting dressed, eating breakfast, washing, etc….) are like the Hail Marys of my Rosary of Life, and as I go through each one of them, I ponder the mysteries of my life with Jesus, and remember His presence with me through them all?? Yes, then I will feel that my whole life is becoming a Rosary with Jesus and Mary.