For the readers of Exaudi and friends of Sin Rodeos, by Refugio Zavala, they bring us a very special guest, Father Antonio, parish priest of Santa Eulalia de Mérida, in the heart of the Entrevías neighborhood of Madrid, in a serene and sincere conversation with Paloma Pía Gasset.
Father Antonio shares with us his inspiring priestly vocation, which gradually blossomed throughout his life. From a devout family, his path to the priesthood was marked by a series of experiences that led him to respond to God’s call with determination and maturity.
As Father Antonio immerses us in his own story, he also introduces us to the legacy of Mother Esperanza, a figure revered for her holiness and compassion. Originally from Murcia, Mother Esperanza grew up in difficult circumstances, but her deep love for God guided her toward a life devoted to the service of others.
Father Antonio shares how Mother Esperanza’s example has impacted his own life and his pastoral ministry. He highlights the importance of combining love and mercy, fundamental values that Mother Hope embodied throughout her life.
A revealing anecdote shared by Father Antonio illustrates the profound impact of the sacrament of confession on his life. Experiencing divine mercy through a transformative encounter in the confessional, he understood the true nature of forgiveness and compassion.
Finally, Father Antonio invites us to reflect on the continued relevance of Mother Esperanza’s legacy in today’s world. Her devotion and dedication inspire those who seek to live by the principles of love and mercy, and her influence endures through the generations.
In this encounter with faith, the testimony of Father Antonio and the figure of Mother Esperanza remind us of the importance of following God’s call with courage and humility, and inspire us to live with compassion and generosity towards others.
This episode in the life of Saint Therese Elis is truly shocking. Her testimony of her consecrated life and her vocational discernment are remarkable. After reading her book “Story of a Soul”, I was amazed by this impressive woman.
Saint Therese Elis, initially inspired by the legacy of Saint Teresa of Ávila, decided to join a congregation dedicated to the care of the sick. Later, she founded the Handmaids of Merciful Love congregation, beginning with humility and sacrifice. Her life was marked by dedication to those most in need, despite facing opposition and challenges.
During World War II, in Rome, Saint Therese Elis continued her charitable work, even multiplying food to help those in need. Her spirituality was centered on Christ and the Eucharist, and her example of service continues to inspire many.
The sanctuary of Collevalenza, where she founded the first community of the Children of Merciful Love, is a place of peace and reconciliation. There, pilgrims seek God’s mercy and experience grace through the sacrament of reconciliation.
The figure of Saint Therese Elis, although more recognized in Italy than in Spain, is being promoted in her homeland. Her life of giving and generosity continues to inspire those seeking a deeper relationship with God and service to others.
Caravaca de la Cruz, a pilgrimage destination, includes stops at significant places such as the house where Mother Esperanza lived. This site seeks to highlight the figure of her mother, little known in Spain, but who continues to inspire devotion and struggle. The Sanctuary of Collevalenza, a space of peace and harmony with nature, offers a spiritual journey that leads to reflection and renewal of faith. It highlights a living crucifix that represents the overflowing love of God and the centrality of Christ. In addition, a novena written by Mother Esperanza is offered, which invites an experience of trust in God and personal transformation. Young people can find in her a model of dedication and courage to face the challenges of life with Jesus. The novena is available in the parish of Santa Oladia in Mérida and through the website of the congregation of the Children of Merciful Love. We pray for the protection of Mother Esperanza and for those who seek spiritual guidance from her.
