High Water or The Bishop Who Waited

 

Dear Diary,

Because the rain had soaked the ground, the Reading Club met in the Clubhouse. Sister Mary Claire opened the windows, Robert poured cold milk, and we ate granola while water dripped from the eaves.

Mini had a little dish with boiled chicken, which she loves. Thank you, Sister Mary Claire.

Father LeRoy asked me to read my chapter summary.

“Monseigneur Laurence still hesitated to believe fully in the Apparitions at Lourdes. He was careful, learned, and afraid of being misled by excitement or exaggeration.

“He did not approve of the civil authorities’ harsh measures, but he also did not want the Church to act too quickly. His caution was part of God’s providence. By waiting, he allowed the events at Lourdes to prove themselves without the support of Church authority.

“The people had great faith, while the Bishop had patience. God used both to fulfill His plan.”

Robert said, “So the Bishop’s doubts became part of the proof.”

Father LeRoy nodded. “Yes. When he finally spoke, no one could say he had been carried away by popular enthusiasm.”

Sister Mary Claire added, “The people needed patience, and the Bishop needed light. God gave both in the proper time.”

Before we left, Father asked me to read the closing prayer.

“Dear God, give us the faith of the people and the patience of the Bishop. Help us to trust Your providence and wait for Your truth to become clear.

“Please protect our homes and farms after the heavy rain. Watch over Shaggycoat, too. The water in Indian Creek was running very fast, and I pray that his lodge held together and that he is safe. Amen.”

Father LeRoy blessed everyone, and the Reading Club agreed to meet again tomorrow.

As Mini walked around the puddles, I thought that sometimes God asks us to believe, and sometimes He asks us to wait.

Good night, dear Diary.

Kathy

The Lightning Storm

  

Dear Diary,
 
It began raining during Holy Mass this morning, and by the time Father LeRoy gave the final blessing, the drops were pattering steadily against the church windows. Our meeting beneath the apple tree was plainly impossible, so everyone carried their books downstairs to the church basement.

It was not nearly as pretty as sitting outside, but it was warm and dry, and the sound of the rain above us made the basement feel rather peaceful. Mini settled beneath my chair and rested her chin upon her paws while Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

Today’s chapter told how the people of Lourdes had become deeply troubled by the continued silence of Bishop Laurence. The clergy still kept away from the Grotto and obeyed the Bishop’s orders not to take part in the growing movement.

The people could not understand it.

They had witnessed the spring flowing from the rock, heard of many wonderful cures, and seen the government begin to persecute those who visited Massabielle. Surely, they thought, the Bishop ought to speak. Some wanted him to defend the pilgrims, while others wished him at least to begin an investigation.

When the Prefect even claimed that he was acting in agreement with the Church authorities, Bishop Laurence still made no public reply. The people began to murmur that perhaps the Bishop was timid, indifferent, or unwilling to recognize what God was doing.

When I finished, Robert said, “It must have required great courage for the Bishop to remain silent when nearly everyone was demanding that he act.”

Sister Mary Claire nodded. “Sometimes silence appears to be weakness when it is really patience. A bishop must protect the faithful not only from unbelief, but also from accepting something before it has been properly examined.”

Father LeRoy said that Bishop Laurence was responsible before God for whatever judgment he made. “The people saw many convincing signs,” he explained, “but the Bishop had to determine whether those signs were truly supernatural. He could not allow enthusiasm, fear, or even persecution to make the decision for him.”

I said that I would have found it very difficult not to answer when people were accusing me of cowardice.

Father smiled and said, “That is often the hardest kind of courage, Kathy—to wait quietly while others misunderstand you.”

Then Robert uncovered the morning’s refreshments: fried-egg sandwiches with mayonnaise and pickles. They were still a little warm and smelled delicious. The eggs were folded neatly between thick slices of bread, though the pickles made some of the sandwiches rather slippery.

“An excellent choice, Robert,” Father declared after his first bite.

Everyone agreed. They were easily enough to hold us until lunchtime.

Sister Mary Claire looked at the size of her sandwich and said, “I believe this has already replaced lunch.”

Robert said that had not been his intention, but he did not appear very sorry about it.

Mini watched every bite with great attention. Robert finally gave her a small corner of plain egg and bread, without mayonnaise or pickles, which she accepted as though it were the finest meal ever served in a church basement.

Before we left, Father asked me to read our prayer.

Dear Blessed Mother, help us to trust the wisdom of those whom God has appointed to guide His Church. When we do not understand their silence or their decisions, keep us patient, humble, and charitable. Teach us never to mistake haste for courage, nor careful judgment for weakness. Amen.

Father LeRoy blessed us and reminded us that true prudence is not fear, but the courage to wait for God’s proper time.

When we climbed the basement stairs, the rain was still falling gently. I kept thinking about Bishop Laurence. Everyone wanted him to hurry, yet perhaps God was teaching him to stand still.

Good night, dear Diary.

Kathy

Freedom to Pray

Dear Diary,

After Holy Mass today, we all met beneath the apple tree behind St. Mary’s. The leaves made dancing shadows across our books, and Mini settled beside me as Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

Today’s chapter told how the government continued to block the Grotto, even though the cures from its waters could not be denied. No disorder had taken place, and no one had been harmed. Still, barriers were raised and guards were posted, as though prayer itself were something dangerous.

Robert said, “If Bernadette had only discovered a useful mineral spring, the officials probably would have given her a medal.”

Sister Mary Claire nodded. “But because people knelt and prayed before drinking, the authorities called it superstition.”

Father said that true freedom must include the freedom to believe, to pray, and to ask God for help. He reminded us that the Church had not yet made an official judgment about the Apparitions, but the government had already judged against them without a fair examination.

Then Father closed his book and said, “We should be getting ready to leave Lourdes. We are nearing the end of our book.”

That made us all rather quiet and sad. It seems as though we have truly been traveling with Bernadette these many weeks. But Sister smiled and said, “Another good story will pop up just when we need it.”

For our treat, Sister brought soda crackers again, but this time Robert had a new chocolate-and-hazelnut spread called Nutella. We spread it between two crackers and voted on it immediately.

“Triple A!” Robert announced.

We all agreed—even Father. Mini received a plain cracker and appeared to give that a triple A rating too.

Before we left, I read our closing prayer:

Dear Lord, help us always to defend the freedom to love You, to pray to You, and to follow the truth without fear. Keep us faithful when others misunderstand us, and teach us to trust Your wisdom in all things. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us. Amen.

Father gave us his blessing and dismissed the Reading Club. As we walked away beneath the apple branches, I felt sad that our journey through Lourdes was nearly finished—but also curious about where our next book might take us.

Good night, dear Diary.

Kathy

When the Grotto was Closed

July 18, 1957

Dear Diary,

After Holy Mass, our Reading Club met again in the clubhouse. Father LeRoy brought a tin of sugar cookies made by his housekeeper, and Robert brought a bottle of cold Jersey milk. Mini settled beneath the little table before we had even opened our books.

Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

I explained that the Prefect ordered Mayor Lacadé to close the Grotto. The Mayor did not seem eager to do it, but he was afraid of losing his position. He agreed to sign the order only after wording was added to show that he was merely obeying his superiors.

Soon barriers were built around the Rocks of Massabielle, and guards watched day and night. Notices warned the people not to enter, yet many still came as near as they could to kneel and pray.

Those who disobeyed were brought before Judge Duprat. He fined them five francs, but then unfairly made each person responsible for the court costs of everyone who had gone to the Grotto that day. A small fine could therefore become a terrible burden for a poor family.

When I finished, Robert said, “They tried to frighten the people away without appearing cruel.”

Sister Mary Claire nodded. “And Mayor Lacadé tried to escape responsibility by saying he was only obeying orders. But we are still responsible for the things we choose to do.”

Father LeRoy said the barriers could keep people from reaching the rocks, but they could not stop their prayers or their faith.

Then Father opened the cookie tin. The sugar cookies were soft in the middle and sprinkled with sugar on top. While everyone was talking, Robert broke off a tiny corner and quietly slipped it beneath the table. Mini took it very gently and then looked up at him as though she had been terribly neglected and might require another.

Before we left, Father asked me to read our prayer.

“Dear Blessed Mother, help us to remain faithful when doing what is right becomes difficult. Give courage to those who are treated unjustly, and teach us never to hide behind excuses when we know what God asks of us. Lead us always closer to Jesus. Amen.”

Father LeRoy blessed us and dismissed the club with the Sign of the Cross.

The officials had placed barriers around the Grotto, but I do not believe any barrier made by men can keep a sincere prayer from reaching Heaven.

Good night, dear Diary.

Love, Kathy

The Barrier at Massabielle

Dear Diary,

After Holy Mass, we met in the Reading Clubhouse, and Father LeRoy asked me to read my chapter summary.

The Prefect, Baron Massy, was determined to stop people from visiting the Grotto. Since drinking from the spring was not against the law, the authorities decided that because the land belonged to the town of Lourdes, the Mayor could forbid anyone from entering it.

On June 8, 1858, an order was issued forbidding people to take water from the spring or cross the land near Massabielle. A barrier was placed at the entrance, and anyone who disobeyed could be prosecuted.

Father said the order made an innocent act appear unlawful. Robert added that because the authorities could not prove the spring was harmful, they tried to keep everyone away. Sister Mary Claire reminded us that unjust actions are sometimes hidden beneath proper-sounding words.

For our treat, Sister served saltine crackers with chocolate frosting between two squares. They were sweet, salty, and very crisp. She also made one special cracker with peanut butter for Mini and asked Robert to give it to her. Mini accepted it very politely, though it disappeared in only two bites.

Sister Mary Claire's Chocolate Frosting

Mix 2 tablespoons softened butter, 2 tablespoons cocoa, 1½ cups powdered sugar, 2 or 3 tablespoons warm milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla. Beat until smooth and spread between two saltine crackers.

Then I read our closing prayer:

“Dear Blessed Mother, help us remain faithful when the road is made difficult. Teach us to trust God, love the truth, and obey Him with courage. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us. Amen.”

Father LeRoy gave us his blessing and dismissed the club.

As we left, I thought that men could place a barrier before the Grotto, but they could not stop God’s truth from reaching His people.


All for Jesus,

Kathy

When Truth Stood Firm

Dear Diary,

The Reading Club met again today in our clubhouse, and Father LeRoy asked me to read my chapter summary. Mini settled beneath the table, while Sister Mary Claire, Robert, and Father listened.

The chapter explained how every argument against Lourdes had slowly fallen apart. First, the unbelievers said Bernadette was pretending. When her honesty could not be doubted, they said she only imagined the Lady. Then the spring appeared, and they denied that it was really a spring. When its water began flowing abundantly, they called it an accident.

After the cures became too numerous to deny, they claimed the water contained special minerals. But careful men of science found that it was only ordinary water. Each time the truth became clearer, the unbelievers moved to another excuse rather than humbly admit that God was at work.

Father said the comparison with ripe wheat was especially beautiful. Empty stalks stand stiff and proud, but when they are filled with good grain, they bow their heads. Truly wise people become humble before the truth.

We had a lively discussion about how pride can keep a person from believing even when the evidence is right before him. Sister Mary Claire said that faith does not ask us to close our eyes, but to open them more widely and recognize the hand of God.

Just then, the Breakfast Club arrived with a great pan of biscuits and gravy. Our little table was not quite prepared for such a feast! Sister Mary Claire hurried into the house and returned with a ladle, a stack of napkins, and a tiny gravy dish for Mini. Mini looked very pleased with the arrangements, although Father reminded us that she must wait until her dish had cooled.

The biscuits were warm and soft, and the gravy was so good that nobody talked much for several minutes. Robert said that even the Reading Club could occasionally learn something from the Breakfast Club.

When everything was cleared away, I read our closing prayer, asking God to keep our hearts humble and willing to follow the truth wherever it leads. Father LeRoy made the Sign of the Cross over us and gave us his blessing before dismissing the club.

I thought about the spring at Lourdes, flowing quietly from the rock while arguments rose and fell around it. Truth does not need to shout. It only needs to remain true.

Good night, dear diary.

All for Jesus,
Kathy

A Choice Had to Be Made

Dear Diary,

Our Reading Club met again today at the clubhouse, and Father LeRoy asked me to read my chapter summary.

I explained that the governor was becoming more and more troubled by the crowds at Lourdes. The pilgrims remained so peaceful and prayerful that the police had no excuse to interfere with them. He could either admit that he had been wrong and leave the people alone, or he could use force to close the Grotto. The chapter kept saying that he must either retreat or advance boldly.

There was also growing doubt about the first examination of the spring water. A local chemist said it was only ordinary water and contained nothing that could explain the miraculous cures. Many other scientists agreed, so the town council asked the famous Professor Filhol to make a new and final examination.

“The governor must have been worried about what the professor would discover,” Robert said when I finished that part.

Father nodded. “Yes, because if the water proved to be ordinary, the cures would become even harder to explain away.”

Sister Mary Claire said quietly, “They kept searching for something in the water, when perhaps they should have been looking toward Heaven.”

We all thought that was very true.

Then I read about Bernadette making her First Holy Communion on the feast of Corpus Christi. Even while important men were examining the water of the spring, Our Lord was entering Bernadette’s pure and humble heart.

“That was my favorite part,” I told everyone. “Bernadette did not care about being noticed. She only wanted to love God.”

Robert smiled. “She certainly didn’t want to become rich from any of it.”

That began another lively discussion. Bernadette would not trade her plain rosary for one made of precious stones because her poor rosary suited her better. She also refused money from a priest, even when he suggested that she give it to the poor.

“She wanted to serve God without being paid,” Sister said.

“And that made her honesty even clearer,” Father added. “She and her family sometimes lacked bread, yet she would not profit from the favors God had given her.”

The chapter ended with government officials praising the governor and urging him to take stronger action against the Grotto and the miracles. Still, no one seemed to know what could actually be done against peaceful people who only wished to pray.

After our discussion, Father brought out a box of Krispy Kreme doughnuts and a quart of cold Jersey milk. The milk was rich and creamy, just the way we all like it, and the doughnuts disappeared very quickly.

When everything had been cleared away, Father asked me to read our closing prayer.

“Dear Blessed Mother, help us to be humble and honest like Bernadette. Teach us to love prayer more than praise and to serve God without seeking any reward. Give courage to all who must choose between what is easy and what is right. Keep our hearts pure and peaceful, and lead us always closer to your Divine Son. Amen.”

Father LeRoy then raised his hand and gave us his blessing.

It was a good meeting, and I kept thinking about Bernadette’s poor little rosary. It was not made of precious stones, but I think it must have been very precious to Heaven.

Love, Kathy

The Peaceful Crowds of Lourdes

Dear Diary,

Our Reading Club met again today in the clubhouse. When everyone was settled, Father LeRoy asked me to read my chapter summary.

I explained that newspapers in Paris and other parts of France had begun writing about Lourdes. Some praised the government officials for trying to stop the gatherings, while the Catholic newspapers said the Church should be allowed to examine the Apparitions and decide what was true.

Still, every effort to discourage the pilgrims seemed to bring even more people to the Grotto. Some came because they believed, some hoped to be healed, and others came only out of curiosity. Spring had returned, the roads were easier to travel, and thousands made their way through the hills and valleys to pray and drink from the Spring.

What impressed everyone most was how peaceful the crowds remained. Even when the police removed candles, flowers, money, and other offerings, the people continued praying quietly. One night, someone tore up the pipe from the Spring and covered the water with rocks, dirt, and sand. The people were very upset, but they still did not become violent. The mayor soon ordered the pipe replaced and the Spring cleared.

The stonecutters of Lourdes had planned a large procession for Ascension Day, but they were afraid their anger toward the officials might lead to trouble. Instead, they gave up the procession and even canceled their yearly dance out of respect for Our Lady.

When I finished, Robert said it seemed that the officials could carry away the candles and flowers, but they could not remove the faith from the people’s hearts.

Sister Mary Claire said the patience of the pilgrims was one of the strongest parts of the chapter.

Father LeRoy nodded and said, “True peace is not weakness. It often takes greater courage to remain calm than to strike back.”

Then Sister suddenly asked who had brought lunch.

Everyone looked around the room.

It turned out that each person had thought someone else was bringing it. Thanks to Sister’s quick thinking, we ended up with a pitcher of cool Kool-Aid and a plate of crackers.

Mini sat beneath the table, watching every cracker that passed from hand to hand. Robert glanced around, broke off a small piece, and slipped it to her when he thought no one was looking. I saw him, but I did not say anything. Mini ate it so quickly that she looked innocent again before Father LeRoy even turned his head.

It was not much of a lunch, but we laughed and agreed that Kool-Aid and crackers tasted quite good when shared among friends.

Before we left, I read our prayer:

“Dear Blessed Mother, help us to remain patient and peaceful when we are misunderstood or treated unfairly. Teach us to answer anger with gentleness and to keep our hearts close to Jesus. Please watch over the sick, the troubled, and all those searching for faith. Amen.”

Father LeRoy gave us his blessing, and we gathered our books and went our ways.

Kathy

The Hand Made Whole

 
Dear Diary,

This afternoon our reading club met in the old garage. Father LeRoy came over after dinner, and Sister Mary Claire helped arrange the chairs near the open doors. Mini settled beside me, ready for the meeting.

When everyone was quiet, I presented my chapter summary.

The spring at the Grotto continued to flow clear and plentifully, and many graces were being received there.

One of the most remarkable cures was that of Catharine Latapie-Choust, a poor farm woman whose right hand had been badly injured in a fall. For eighteen months, three of her fingers remained bent and useless. Her doctor finally told her that she would never regain the use of them.

One night, Catharine felt a powerful inward voice telling her, “Go to the Grotto, and you will be cured.”

Although she was near the time for her baby to be born, she set out at three o’clock in the morning with her two children. They traveled by moonlight and reached Lourdes at daybreak.

After praying at the Grotto, Catharine placed her injured hand in the spring water. At once, her fingers straightened and became strong and supple again. For the first time in eighteen months, she was able to join her hands in prayer.

Soon afterward, the pains of childbirth began. Catharine prayed to the Blessed Virgin that she might be allowed to return home first. The pains stopped, and she made the long journey safely. Shortly after arriving home, she gave birth to a healthy son.

When I finished reading, a lively discussion followed.

Robert said Catharine’s courage amazed him almost as much as her cure. Sister Mary Claire pointed out that Catharine did not make a great display when her hand was healed. She simply knelt and thanked God.

Father LeRoy said that was one of the most beautiful parts of the story. True faith, he said, trusts God and remembers to be grateful.

Lunch was cold milk and Nestlé’s Baked Just Right cookies. Robert inadvertently dropped part of his cookie under the table, and Mini found it before anyone else noticed. She looked quite pleased with her unexpected share of lunch.

Before we left, I read the prayer:

“Blessed Mother, teach us to trust God when the road ahead seems dark. Help us to pray with confidence and to give thanks for every grace we receive. Lead the sick and discouraged closer to your Son. Amen.”

Father LeRoy gave us his blessing and dismissed the club.

As the afternoon sun shone through the garage doors, I looked at my own hands and thought of Catharine joining hers together after eighteen long months.

Sometimes the simplest prayer must feel like a miracle.

Good night, dear Diary.

What Chemistry Could Not Explain

Dear Diary,

This evening, Sister Mary Claire and I went to Saturday evening Holy Mass. Father thought it would be easier for everyone if the Reading Club met beforehand, so we gathered beneath the apple tree while the afternoon was still warm and bright.

After everyone had settled down, Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

I explained that the Prefect, Baron Massy, was still searching for some ordinary explanation for the cures taking place at Lourdes. Since he could not have Bernadette arrested as insane, he turned to chemistry. He hoped that an official examination of the spring water would prove that its natural mineral properties were responsible for the healings.

A chemist named M. Latour de Trie examined the water and found that it was clear, without any unusual smell or taste, and very much like ordinary water. It contained several common minerals, but nothing that could truly explain the remarkable cures. Even so, the chemist suggested that medical science might someday discover special healing properties in it.

Father said this was exactly the explanation the Prefect had wanted. If the cures could be blamed upon minerals, there would be no need to admit that anything supernatural was happening.

But there was an embarrassing disagreement. While the Prefect’s chemist praised the water and predicted that it might become one of the mineral treasures of the region, the Prefect’s own newspaper mocked it as dirty water and made jokes about the many cures being reported.

We all smiled a little at that. Sister Mary Claire said it showed how difficult it is to keep an argument straight when people have already decided what they want to believe.

Robert said, “One report says the water is valuable, and the other says it is worthless—but both are being used to deny the miracles.”

Father nodded and said that truth does not become less true merely because people disagree about how to explain it.

The Prefect had acted very quickly. He had ordered the offerings removed from the Grotto, considered arresting Bernadette, abandoned that plan, and obtained the chemist’s report—all within only a few days. Yet after all his activity, he was still waiting anxiously to see what would happen next.

Would the spring dry up in the summer heat? Would the people stop coming? What would Bernadette do? The Prefect watched everything closely, hoping that the whole matter would simply come to an end.

We discussed how people sometimes search for complicated explanations because the simplest truth frightens them. Father reminded us that faith does not oppose true science. Chemistry could tell what was present in the water, but it could not explain why certain people were suddenly healed through it.

Just then, the church bell began to ring across the yard.

Father closed his book and smiled. “That is our signal.”

Everyone stood, and Father gave us his blessing. Then he asked me to lead our Reading Club prayer.

“Dear Lord, help us to love the truth, even when it surprises us. Keep our hearts humble and teach us never to place our own opinions above Your wisdom. Through the prayers of Our Lady of Lourdes, strengthen our faith and lead us always closer to You. Amen.”

We gathered our books and hurried toward the church together as the bell continued ringing.

It seemed like the perfect ending to our meeting—and the perfect beginning to Holy Mass.

All for Jesus,

Kathy

When the Cures Could No Longer Be Denied

Dear Diary,

After Holy Mass this morning, we met at the Reading Club, and Father asked me to read the chapter summary.

Today’s chapter told how the doctors and scientific men of Lourdes could no longer deny that people were really being cured by the water from the Grotto.

At first, they had laughed at Bernadette and called her visions childish nonsense. Then, when the cures began, they tried to say that the sick people had been healed by their own imaginations. But as more cures took place and the evidence became harder to dismiss, that explanation no longer worked.

So they changed their argument.

Now they said that the water must contain some very powerful natural mineral. In that way, they could admit that the cures were real without admitting that God had anything to do with them.

The chapter included a letter written by Doctor Lary about a woman named Galop. Rheumatism had made her left hand almost useless. She could not spin, make her bed, draw water from the well, or safely carry glasses and dishes.

After one visit to Lourdes, where she used the water from the Grotto, she regained nearly all the use of her hand.

Doctor Lary honestly admitted that she had greatly improved, but he believed the water must contain alkali. Other medical men began using the same explanation for almost every cure, even those that happened so suddenly that ordinary mineral water could hardly account for them.

The believers then asked a very sensible question.

Why had this remarkable spring appeared at the exact moment Bernadette, while in ecstasy, heard the Lady tell her to drink and wash? Why had it come forth during the heavenly visions? And why were the sick going to it with prayer and faith rather than upon the advice of their doctors?

The unbelievers answered that it was all chance. They said Bernadette had accidentally uncovered the spring while digging in the earth during a hallucination.

But the faithful thought that explaining everything by chance did more violence to reason than believing that God had acted through Providence.

By the end of the chapter, the men who had first denied the spring, then denied the cures, and finally admitted both, began speaking of government control. They said the water ought to belong to the State or the town and that no one should be allowed to use it without a doctor’s permission.

Some even said that a bathing establishment would be more suitable at the Grotto than a chapel.

That was how matters stood when the Prefect’s measures against the Grotto began, along with the attempt to have Bernadette confined as insane. But Curé Peyramale unexpectedly stepped forward and prevented it.

When I finished reading, everyone was quiet for a moment.

Father said the chapter showed how error often retreats one step at a time. First it laughs at the truth. Then it denies the truth. Finally, when the truth can no longer be denied, it tries to explain it without acknowledging God.

Sister Mary Claire said that the doctors were right to examine the cures carefully. Faith does not ask anyone to be careless or foolish. But she said it was not reasonable to decide beforehand that no explanation involving God could ever be accepted.

Robert said, “They were willing to believe that the water could do almost anything, just so long as Heaven received no credit.”

That began a lively discussion.

Father reminded us that truth does not need to be frightened or hurried. It remains true even when people laugh at it, argue against it, or try to explain it away.

I liked that very much.

Before the meeting ended, Father led us in prayer. We thanked God for the gift of reason and asked Him to protect us from pride. We also prayed for doctors and scientists, that their learning might always be joined with humility and an honest love of truth.

It was another peaceful Reading Club meeting. The story of Lourdes becomes more interesting with every chapter, because the more the truth was resisted, the more clearly it seemed to shine.

Dear Blessed Mother, help me never to turn away from the truth merely because it leads me closer to God. Teach me to be humble, honest, and ready to accept whatever is true. Amen.

Good night, dear Diary.

Kathy

One Small Step at a Time

Dear Diary,

After Holy Mass this morning, everyone gathered once again in our little Readers Clubhouse. It is beginning to feel like a second home. Father LeRoy asked me to read today's chapter summary, and everyone settled into their chairs while Sister Mary Claire poured cold Golden Rule milk into glasses. A plate of chocolate chip cookies was waiting on the little table, but Father smiled and said we should feed our minds before our stomachs.

I stood up and read my summary.

"Today's chapter reminded us that not every miracle happened all at once. Some of the healings at Lourdes came little by little, as if Our Lady was gently leading people toward health one step at a time.

One little boy named Lasbareilles had never been able to walk because his body was badly deformed from birth. His parents lovingly rubbed the water from the Grotto on him again and again. At first nothing seemed to happen, but they never gave up hope. On Holy Thursday he took a few steps by himself, and over the next several weeks he grew stronger until he could walk almost like any other child. Other people who suffered from paralysis and epilepsy were also healed gradually after using the water of Massabielle.

The chapter reminded us that God's miracles are not always sudden. Sometimes they come quietly and patiently, asking us to keep believing even when we cannot yet see the answer."

When I finished, everyone was quiet for a moment. Father LeRoy said that sometimes we expect God to work like lightning, but often He works more like the sunrise. We hardly notice the light growing until suddenly the whole world is bright. Sister Mary Claire said she admired the faith of the little boy's mother because she never stopped hoping. Robert nodded and said that mothers probably understand hope better than anyone.

After our discussion we enjoyed the cookies and the cold milk. We laughed together, but I kept thinking about how many blessings in life seem to arrive one little step at a time. Maybe growing closer to Jesus is like that too.

Before we left, Father asked me to read our Reading Club prayer.

"Dear Jesus, thank You for bringing us together again today. Help us to trust You, whether Your answers come quickly or slowly. Give us patient hearts, strong faith, and thankful spirits. May we always remember that You are working, even when we cannot yet see the whole picture. Bless our families, our parish, and everyone who needs Your healing. Amen."

Father made the Sign of the Cross over us and gave us his blessing. We all said goodbye until next time, and I walked home feeling thankful that God never forgets His children, even when His miracles come one quiet day at a time.

Love,

Kathy

When Truth Can no Longer be Denied

Dear Diary,

This morning after Holy Mass, our Reading Club met in what everyone now calls the Readers Clubhouse. I like that name very much. Robert fixed up the old garage for me, but now it feels like it belongs to all of us.

The windows were open, and the air smelled fresh and clean. Sister Mary Claire set chocolate chip cookies on the little table, and beside them was a cold jar of Golden Rule Dairy Jersey milk.

After Father opened with a prayer, Father asked me to read my chapter summary. I stood up with my notes. I was a little nervous like I always am, but everyone was smiling, so that helped.


“Today’s chapter is called When Truth Could No Longer Be Denied.

The people who opposed Lourdes had tried for weeks to explain everything away. At first they simply denied the spring and the cures. They did not want to investigate because they had already made up their minds.

But the spring kept flowing, and more people kept being cured. Some who had been called incurable were now walking through town in good health, where everyone could see them.

The author says their mistake was denying the facts too soon. Once the truth became plain, they had to invent new explanations instead of admitting they had been wrong.”

When I finished, Father said pride can make a person shut his eyes even when the truth is right in front of him.

Robert said, “The spring was there, and the healed people were there too. They could not hide either one.”

Sister Mary Claire said God gives enough light for people to believe, but He does not force them.

That stayed with me. I hope I never become so proud that I cannot say, “I was wrong.” It seems much better to follow the truth than to protect my own opinion.

After our discussion, we had cookies and cold milk. Mini sat close to the table and behaved very well, except for watching every crumb.

Before everyone left, Father asked me to read our prayer.

“Dear Jesus, give us humble hearts that welcome truth. Keep us from pride and fear. Help us to follow the light You give us, and to trust You even when we do not understand everything. Amen.”

Father made the Sign of the Cross and blessed us.

“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Go in peace.”

When the meeting was over, the sunlight was still shining through the clubhouse windows. I think every chapter is teaching us the same thing in a new way: truth belongs to God, and we should never be afraid of it.

The Readers Clubhouse

Dear Diary,

Our Reading Club met today in the old garage that Robert fixed up for me as a quiet little prayer room. It used to be plain and dusty, but now it has a warm stove, a lantern on the table, a curtain by the bed, and the sign over everything that says All for Jesus.

Sister Mary Claire brought cookies and a jar of Golden Rule Milk for our lunch. Robert said cookies and milk are about the best reading food there is. Father LeRoy smiled and said he could not find fault with that.

When it was my turn, I stood near the stove and read my chapter summary.

I said that today’s chapter was about the chief government officer beginning to see that arresting Bernadette would not be easy. He did not seem very afraid of God’s signs, but he was troubled by the courage of Father Peyramale, the parish priest, who was ready to protect Bernadette.

The mayor did not want to help with such a harsh thing, and even offered to resign. The people were upset because the holy things had been taken away from the Grotto. Even the police and soldiers respected Bernadette, so the chief government officer could not be sure they would obey orders against her.

He had hoped the doctors would say Bernadette was crazy or confused, but they could not honestly say that. Everyone could see that she was sensible, truthful, and acting in good faith. So he had to stop his plan to have her locked away.

But he did not really give up. He only changed his plan. He still wanted to stop people from believing in the Apparition and from praying at Lourdes. Since he could not prove Bernadette was not right in her mind, he would look for another way to fight against what God was doing.

When I finished, Robert said, “So he lost that battle, but he still would not surrender.”

Father LeRoy said, “That is pride. It may change roads, but it does not easily change direction.”

Sister Mary Claire said the part that touched her most was how Bernadette remained free, probably saying her morning and evening prayers, without even knowing how much danger had passed over her head. Sister said, “God sometimes protects His little ones so quietly that they do not even know the whole battle.”

I liked that very much.

Then Father asked us what protected Bernadette in this chapter. I said, “The truth.” Robert said, “The priest.” Sister said, “God’s care.” Father smiled and said all three answers belonged together.

Before everyone left, we knelt in the little garage room and said a prayer together.

Dear Jesus, please protect the innocent and give courage to those who defend the truth. Keep me from being proud when I am wrong. Help me to follow You simply and faithfully, like Bernadette. Please bless our Reading Club, the little prayer room, and everyone who comes here. Let it all be for You. Amen.

Now the cookies are gone, the milk jar is empty, and the garage is quiet again.

But it does not feel empty.

It feels prayed in.

All for Jesus.

Home at Creekside

Dear Diary,

It was so good to be back at Littlemore Farm today. After getting home yesterday, Shaggycoat ran straight down the path toward the creek and his lodge, as if he had been gone a whole year instead of just a little while. So after Holy Mass this morning, the Reading Club decided to join Shaggycoat at creekside for the meetup.

Father LeRoy had picked up Krispy Kremes and a half gallon of cold milk, which made everything feel like a feast. We sat near the creek with our books open, the water moving quietly below the bluff, and the cave cool behind us.

When everyone was settled, Father nodded to me, and I read my chapter summary.

I told the club that this was a very sad day at Lourdes. The Prefect had ordered the Grotto to be stripped of the candles, statues, flowers, and little gifts people had placed there for Our Lady. M. Jacomet tried to get horses and a cart, but nearly everyone refused to help him. They did not want any part in what felt like disrespect toward the Blessed Virgin.

At last he found someone who would lend him a cart, and a great crowd followed him to Massabielle. The people were angry and sorrowful, but the priests had warned them to remain peaceful. They told them that if Our Lady wished, she could turn everything to her own glory without anyone needing to fight.

When the police removed the offerings and even broke the railing with an axe, the crowd nearly lost control. But some voices called out for calm, and no violence happened. That evening, the people returned to the Grotto with flowers and candles in their own hands, so the police could not seize them again.

When I finished, Father said that was a beautiful kind of protest—quiet, faithful, and full of trust. Sister Mary Claire said the people of Lourdes showed that love for Our Lady can be strong without becoming bitter. Robert said even the poorest people refused the money because their consciences were worth more than thirty francs.

I looked at the creek while he said that, and I thought how hard it must have been to watch holy things taken away and still not fight back. Maybe faith is sometimes strongest when it keeps its hands folded and lets God act.

After the meeting, we finished the last doughnuts, and Mini lay in the grass with milk on her whiskers. Shaggycoat stayed near the creek, looking very pleased to be home.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for bringing us back to Littlemore Farm and for the quiet beauty of the creek and cave. Help me to love holy things, to trust Our Lady, and to stay peaceful even when something feels unfair. Bless Father LeRoy, Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, Shaggycoat, and all our Reading Club.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

Amen.

The Road Home to Littlemore

Dear Diary,

Father LeRoy woke us while it was still dark this morning for the long thirty-mile drive back to Littlemore. Bishop Mueller, being very organized, already had breakfast planned. When the housekeeper rang the bell, we came downstairs to bacon, eggs, and toast, which tasted wonderful so early in the morning.

Father said we were ahead of schedule, so we held our Reading Club meeting right there in the Bishop’s residence before leaving. My chapter was about the Curé of Lourdes, Abbé Peyramale, and how firmly he stood against the plan to arrest Bernadette. The Mayor realized the Curé would not give way, and that trying to take Bernadette might stir up the whole town. He finally said he would rather resign than help carry out such a terrible order.

Father said real courage is not loud, but faithful. Sister Mary Claire said the Curé protected Bernadette because she was small, poor, and obedient. Robert liked how one brave priest could stop a plan that seemed already settled.

Soon we thanked Bishop Mueller and started home. The sky grew pale as we drove through the quiet countryside. The corn looked beautiful—some waist high, and some nearly shoulder high. Father said the rain had done its work.

By the time we reached Littlemore, I was glad to be home near St. Mary’s, our fields, and our own little road.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for bringing us safely home. Help me to be brave like the Curé of Lourdes and gentle like Bernadette. Bless Father LeRoy, Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Bishop Mueller, and our Reading Club.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

Amen.

The Shepherd Stands His Ground

Dear Diary,

We spent our second night in Sioux City at the Bishop’s house, and tomorrow we will head home early so we can be back for Holy Mass at St. Mary’s on Sunday morning. It has been such a happy little stay, especially with our Reading Club meeting at the old Dairy Queen on Nebraska Street, with the old Central High standing proudly behind. Everyone enjoyed vanilla ice cream, and even Mini had her own little dish.

I read today’s chapter summary from Our Lady of Lourdes, about how the officials wanted to arrest poor Bernadette, but Father Peyramale stood firm and said they would have to pass over him before touching one hair of her head. Father LeRoy reminded us that this is what a true shepherd does—he protects the weak, even when the powerful stand against him. As evening settled in and fireworks blossomed across the Sioux City sky, I thanked God for faithful priests, for the freedom to practice our faith, and for another wonderful day with our Reading Club.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for another peaceful night and for the kindness we have received during our stay. Give us the courage to stand for what is right, just as Father Peyramale did. Watch over us as we travel home tomorrow, bless our families, our country, and our little Reading Club, and bring us safely back to St. Mary’s for Holy Mass.

Amen.

A Grandview Park Reading Club Day

Dear Diary,

We woke up in Sioux City this morning, which still feels strange to write.

Father LeRoy’s car needed something fixed, and since there was no reason to hurry home, Bishop Mueller kindly let us stay at his big house near Grandview Park. Father said it was a blessing disguised as a broken automobile, and I think he may be right.

After Holy Mass, we carried our books to Grandview Park. It was the most beautiful place our Reading Club has ever met. The bandshell stood white and grand beyond the flowers, and there were blossoms everywhere, bright as Sunday dresses. Mini settled in the grass like she owned the park, and Shaggycoat found the pond right away. He splashed so happily that Father said even beavers must sometimes give thanks in their own way.

We sat at our table with our books open, and Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

Today’s chapter was about the Prefect, Baron Massy, who came to Lourdes during the Council of Revision. Instead of seeing the faith of the people as something holy and consoling, he treated it like a public nuisance. He gave a speech to the mayors, saying that the Grotto had become an illegal oratory because people had left candles, religious objects, and offerings there.

The Prefect claimed to respect religion, but then ordered the police to remove everything from the Grotto. He also commanded that anyone claiming to see visions should be arrested and taken away for medical treatment. He wanted Bernadette stopped, the Grotto stripped bare, and the people frightened into silence.

The chapter says this happened on May 4, right at the beginning of Mary’s month. That made me sad. It seemed as if the Prefect was trying to begin the Month of Mary by taking away candles from Our Lady’s Grotto.

When I finished, nobody spoke for a moment. The flowers were moving in the breeze, and we could hear Shaggycoat splashing in the pond.

Then Robert said, “It sounds like he was afraid of candles.”

Father smiled a little and said, “Sometimes, Robert, men in power are not afraid of candles. They are afraid of what the candles mean.”

Sister Mary Claire said the poor people at Lourdes were not trying to rebel. They were only praying, leaving little signs of love, and drawing water from a place where God had given them hope.

Father said that faith gives poor people courage, especially when the world gives them very little else. He said that taking away someone’s place of prayer can wound the heart more deeply than people realize.

I looked toward the white bandshell and all the flowers, and I thought about the Grotto at Lourdes. It was not grand like Grandview Park, but Our Lady chose it. That made it beautiful in a way no one could take away.

Before we left, I read our prayer.

Dear Blessed Mother,
help us never to be ashamed of prayer.
Keep our hearts gentle, brave, and faithful,
even when others do not understand.
Teach us to love the little candles,
the quiet places,
and every sign that points us to God.
Amen.

Father made the Sign of the Cross and blessed us.

Then Bishop Mueller came by and said there was nothing pressing back home, and since Father’s car might take another day, we were welcome to stay a little longer. Father looked pleased, Robert looked very pleased, and Shaggycoat looked as if he had already decided the pond was his new parish.

So perhaps we will have another Reading Club meeting in Sioux City tomorrow.

I hope so.

Love,
Kathy

A Day at the Normandy

Dear Diary,

This morning after Holy Mass, Father LeRoy surprised us with wonderful news.

“I have to drive into Sioux City on an errand,” he said with a smile, “and I thought the Reading Club might enjoy coming along. My treat is lunch at the Normandy Restaurant.”

Everyone’s eyes grew wide. Even Mini tilted her head as if she understood every word.

Before long we were riding through the bright green countryside in Father’s old car. The rain had washed the fields clean, and everything looked fresh and sparkling.

When we reached the Normandy Restaurant, I could hardly believe how pretty it was. It looked almost like a little French castle, with its round stone tower, climbing ivy, and flowers blooming all around the entrance.

Father looked up at the blue sky and smiled.

“What a beautiful day,” he said. “Would you mind setting a table for us outside beneath the shade? I think our Reading Club belongs outdoors today.”

The hostess smiled warmly. “It would be our pleasure, Father.”

Soon we were seated at a round table under a great shade tree, with the Normandy gardens all around us. It felt like a very grand picnic.

Before lunch arrived, Father said, “Kathy, would you read today’s chapter summary?”

So I stood beside the table and read.


“Today’s chapter tells how two physicians were sent to examine Bernadette after Our Lady revealed her name. They expected to find something wrong with her, but instead they found a sensible, calm, healthy little girl.

Even though they could find no illness, they still suggested she might be imagining the visions, simply because they did not believe such things could happen.

Their report was then used by the Prefect as an excuse to plan Bernadette’s arrest and confinement. He also wanted the Grotto stripped of its offerings, and soldiers kept ready in case the people resisted.

It shows how dangerous it is when people refuse the truth because it does not fit what they already believe.”

Father LeRoy folded his hands quietly.

“The doctors admitted what they saw,” he said, “but they could not accept what it meant. Bernadette had nothing to defend except the truth.”

Robert nodded. “She was the only one who wasn’t trying to prove something.”

That made everyone smile, because it was true.

Then our lunch came—ham and cheese sandwiches, crisp potato chips, and cold milk. We ate slowly beneath the shade tree, with the flowers nearby and the warm city sounds drifting past us.

Before we left, Father asked me to read our prayer.

“Dear Jesus, give us humble hearts that love truth more than pride. Help us never to reject Your works simply because they are beyond our understanding. Teach us to trust You with simple faith, as Bernadette did. Amen.”

Father made the Sign of the Cross over us.

“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”

The ride home felt long and peaceful. The afternoon sun shone over the wet fields, and everyone was quiet for a while. I think we were all still thinking about Bernadette.

Sometimes the journey home is part of the lesson too.

After the Rain the Truth Remained

Dear Diary,

This morning the grass behind St. Mary’s was wet and shining after more than an inch of rain fell in the night. But the sky was clearing, the air was cool, and everything smelled fresh and clean.

After Mass, we met under the apple tree for Reading Club. Since the ground was too wet, Robert helped Father LeRoy set up the little table for lunch. Father had brought egg salad sandwiches and cold milk, and Sister Mary Claire arranged everything neatly while Mini watched.

Then Father asked me to read my chapter summary.

“Today’s chapter tells how Baron Massy still refused to believe the events at Lourdes could be supernatural. Since the police and magistrates could not prove Bernadette was lying, he began to think of using the law about insanity against her.

The chapter explains how dangerous such a law could be. A person might be taken away and shut up if one or two doctors declared him insane, without a public hearing, without defense, and without appeal. The author says doctors are usually honorable, but even learned men can be mistaken when they have already decided that heavenly things are impossible.

This made me sad, because Bernadette was only a simple, truthful girl. She had harmed no one, yet powerful people were looking for ways to silence her.”

When I finished, Father LeRoy said that the world often fears holiness because holiness cannot be controlled. Sister Mary Claire said Bernadette’s strength was her simple truth. Robert said it was strange that grown men were so afraid of one little girl.

Then we gathered around the little table for Father’s sandwiches and cold milk. The lunch tasted extra good in the cool air, with raindrops still falling from the apple leaves.

Before we left, Father asked me to read the club prayer:

“Dear Jesus, help us love the truth, even when it is difficult. Help us be gentle and brave like Bernadette, and keep our hearts close to Our Lady. Amen.”

Then Father LeRoy made the Sign of the Cross over us and gave his blessing.

“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.”

As the clouds moved away, I thought of Bernadette standing quietly before people who wanted to frighten her. I hope I can always tell the truth as simply as she did.

Love,

Kathy