On this feast day of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity (Elisabeth Catez) how might we summarise her thought and the focus of her spirituality?
Where many look to the 'external' world for truth and meaning, or within patterns of a personal or collective experience so as to establish a sense of belief and value, Elizabeth encourages us to go 'inwards' to bear witness to divine presence.
This blend of abandonment before, and attentiveness to, the 'cherished dwelling place' within illuminates the sacred of the present moment. It opens us up to the prospect of true healing, of appreciation and accompaniment, and deepens our values in Jesus Christ.
Throughout her writings there is an underlying expression of joy and confidence in her personal encounter with the divine and her many letters record her longing for others to be open to the gifts of God finding a 'cherished dwelling place' in the human soul. Despite her own trails and tribulations, Elizabeth's message remains one of religious optimism, of spiritual growth and maturity:
‘Through all darkness, all emptiness, all powerlessness, I want to keep my eyes fixed on you and to remain under your great light. O my Beloved Star, so fascinate me that I may never be able to leave your radiance’
