The following series of quotations from the letters of Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger exemplify her roots in the Word of God. This was unusual for a German woman living in the 1800s since members of the Catholic Church were not encouraged to read the Bible.
The lectionary we know today is the result of Vatican II, 1965. It was still common in the 1950s to hear only bible history, stories paraphrased from the Bible, and be discouraged from reading the bible on one's own for fear of misinterpretation.
Mother Theresa's use of scripture in what follows may be both informative and inspiring to see how widely was her acquaintance with scripture, as well as how she shared the Word of God with others through her correspondence.
Below is a listing of the books of the Bible to select from. Each contains citations from Mother Theresa's letters sharing the following information:
Matthew
Matthew 2:10, April 3, 1863
Let us follow the guidance of this Star (Holy Rule) faithfully, as once the Magi from the East followed the guiding star.
#3537, Sisters Juliana, Augustina, Taciana
Matthew 2:10-12, January 5, 1868
Like the Wise Men of the East, you, gracious Lady Countess, have brought to the crib of the Divine Child a gift for the Poor School Sisters, as the three holy kings once did.
#4308, Lady Countess of Vienna
Matthew 4:2, Before January 1859
Our dear Lord and Savior Jesus, for our sake, fasted and prayed in the desert forty days and nights.
#2780 Entire Congregation
Matthew 4:2, February 2, 1861
Our dear Lord and Savior Jesus fasted and prayed forty days and nights in the desert for our sake.
#3222, Entire Congregation
Matthew 4:4, April 17, 1850 (Dt. 8:3)
That man does not live by bread alone but the strength of the Lord is my consolation.
#882, Pastor of Stamsried
Matthew 4:17, May 30, 1847
"Do penance," exclaimed the Lord Jesus loudly before all the world at the beginning of His teaching career. "The kingdom of God is at hand." Yes, O Jesus, You spoke the truth.
#714, *My Dearly beloved companion sisters in Jesus
Matthew 4:35-41, May 30, 1871
Christ that he may guide his Holiness over the tempestuous waves, as once he guided St. Peter over the waters of Genesareth.
#4564, Cardinal Clarelli
Matthew 4:38, 1866
We shall, therefore, humbly plead with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, as did the disciples during the storm at sea.
#4050, Entire Congregation
Matthew 5:1-10, October 30, 1878
Then the third part of the Magnificat will be realized in us: all generations will call us blessed, as they are found in the eight beatitudes; the poor in spirit, with them we shared our bread, Grant that we may one day sing the beautiful Magnificat with the dear mother of God."
#5328, Sisters in Altenbuch
Matthew 5:3, September 25, 1824
For this reason (desire for supreme simplicity) Christ could fittingly proclaim in the Sermon on the Mount, "How happy are the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
p. 16-17, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:3, January 12, 1855
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. #1826, Dean of Ernstkirchen
Matthew 5:4, September 24, 1824
Oh, how true is the word of Jesus: blessed are the meek.
p. 14-15, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:6, September 10, 1931
The lovers of poverty and those who practice it, the mild and peaceful, those who suffer hunger and thirst in and for the love of God.
p. 29-30, #11, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:6, February 15, 1867
The superior replied, "Good, we shall eat those and then rejoice at being considered worthy to suffer hunger in the service of the Lord."
#4120, Cardinal Protector Clarelli
Matthew 5:7, September 10, 1831
...and do devout penance, the merciful.
p. 29-30, #11, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:7, March 27, 1855
Surely the dear Lord of heaven and earth who said, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy," will know how to reward you for all.
#1887, Sisters of Charity - Brede
Matthew 5:7, December 7, 1874
Blessed are the merciful, this sentence of the Lord compensates and lets us see the crown for those who persevere in His service.
#5005, Sisters of Charity - Germany
Matthew 5:8, September 10, 1831
Who preserves a pure heart
P. 29-30, #11, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:10-12, November 1, 1835
Blessed shall you be if, for my sake, the world hates and persecute you. Your reward shall be very great in heaven.
#38, Frederica Ringseis
Matthew 5:11-12, May 30, 1847
Be glad and rejoice, if you are persecuted for My Name's sake, your reward will be great in heaven.
#714, *My dearly...
Matthew 5:10-12, January 26, 1874
and for Jesus' sake, suffering reproach and persecution.
#4893, Bishop of Breslau
Matthew 5:13, c. 1834
To me as to the priest apply the words, 'the salt of the earth.'
#29, Reflections
Matthew 5:13, May 30, 1847
How important that is; moreover, how such an inquisitive soul pours herself out, becomes empty and desolate, and loses her strength as salt does, and is no longer good for anything..
#714, *My dearly loved.
Matthew 5:15, April 5, 1857
and as a light on the candlestick enlightens all, both near and far, will shine in eternity as a fearless confessor of Jesus
#2386, Archbishop of Freiburg
Matthew 5:16, March 3, 1863
Let your light shine so that all may see it and praise your Father who is in heaven.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
Matthew 5:39, September 10, 1831
In disagreeable circumstances, she yields willingly, mindful of the words of our Lord, 'to turn the other cheek' and to pray for those who have offended her.
p. 30-31, #12, Humility Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:3, December 8, 1850
Let us promote peace in our hearts, and in our convents. Even though someone should strike us on our cheek, let us nevertheless cherish peace, and willingly offer the other cheek.
#949, Entire Congregation
Matthew 5:48, October 1, 1823
"walk before me and be perfect. You must, therefore, be perfect just as your heavenly Father is perfect."
p. 3, Retreat Notes
Matthew 5:48, May 30, 1847
"Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect."
#714, *My dearly loved companion sisters in Jesus
Matthew 5:48, July 30, 1859
Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
#2941, Postulants
Matthew 6:19, May 30, 1847
Which like the moth damaging clothes, permeates our soul.
#714, *My dearly loved.
Matthew 6:19, March 3, 1858
"Miss Fanny you are walking in her footsteps (St. Frances). in order to gather treasures for heaven which no thief can steal, nor moth destroy."
#2566, Frances Schwarz
Matthew 6:23, May 30, 1847
"When the eye is weak the whole body is weak."
#714, *To: My dearly beloved companion sisters in Jesus
Matthew 6:24, September 25, 1824
Man has only one heart, and this heart is so fashioned that it either loves God or mammon.
p. 16-17, Retreat Notes
Matthew 6:25-26, November 16, 1836
Indeed his words are forever true, 'Do not worry about what you shall eat, or wherewith you shall be clothed, for your heavenly Father knows what you need, even before you ask. Our merciful Father, who clothes the flowers so beautifully, and feeds the birds, does not forget his orphans either.
#75, Emilie Lindner, artist
Matthew 6:26, May 30, 1847
No more than the birds in the air and the flowers in the field need we be anxious because the good Lord Jesus Himself will look after us for the best. He will provide clothing and food for us.
#714, *My dearly.
Matthew 6:25-26, December 22, 1847
The rich Lord of heaven and earth who feeds the birds of the air and clothes the flowers of the field, will not let His poor handmaids who serve his beloved poor, perish.
#728, Father Siegert
Matthew 6:25, 34 August 26, 1836
our holy founder warned us, not to worry about the next day, as to what we should eat or drink lest God leaves us to our own devices.
#60, Bishop of Ratisbon
Matthew 6:33, 1859
Let us seek first of all the kingdom of God, then everything else will come with it!
#3007, Entire Congregation
Matthew 6:34, April 9, 1853
"Sufficient for the day is the evil thereof."
#1365, Reverend Dr. Schels
Matthew 7:13
Few will enter into heaven, the way thereto is narrow and who can walk thereon?
p. 29-30, Retreat Notes
Matthew 8:22, December 20, 1860
The sisters should, therefore, refrain from such curiosity, (questioning children about family affairs), and, according to the text in our Holy Rule, 'let the dead bury their dead.' and thank God they have left the world
#3201, Entire Congregation
Matthew 8:26, January 15, 1860
Surely He who with his almighty word once settled the wind and waves during a storm on the sea, can and will do the same today in these our troubled times.
#3020, Bishop of Brixin
Matthew 9:36, May 30, 1847
Yes, the good Lord Himself will take care of us as he did for his dear apostles and the poor people who followed him into the desert.
#714, *My dearly.
Matthew 9:36-37, NA
He (God) will provide, we know, for his distraught flock.
(on the death of Cardinal Depenbrock)
#1310, Reverend Gaerth of Breslau
Matthew 9:36, May 19, 1853
...so that the flock may have a Shepherd.
#1384, Bishop of Breslau
Matthew 9:36, August 23, 1855
In consideration of this situation I cannot but acquiesce and say with the Lord, 'I have compassion on the multitude.'
#1993, Sec. of Wurzburg
Matthew 9:37, August 26, 1856
Think of our congregation in the event that you should meet talented young girls with divine vocations because the harvest is great and the laborers all too few.
#2224, Reverend Professor
Matthew 9:37, February 2, 1876
How often we hear the distressing cry: the harvest is great, but laborers are becoming fewer.
#5133, Cardinal Protector de Luca
Matthew 10:14, November 14, 1871
They would shake the dust from their feet and leave Freistadt rather than enter into any obligation against the Holy Roman Catholic faith, or act against it in any way.
#4630, Bishop of Lenz
Matthew 10:16, May 30, 1847
Jesus our dear Lord meant what He said when He warned us, "Be you, therefore, wise as serpents and simple as doves."
#714, *My dearly
Matthew 10:16, January 1867
...wise as serpents in our professional dealings with the hostile world, and at the same time, simple as doves.
#4104, Congregation
Matthew 10:16, 1869
...is to combine the simplicity of the dove with the wisdom of the serpent.
#4405, Entire Congregation
Matthew 10:22, December 8, 1850
Whoever perseveres to the end will be saved.
#949, Entire Congregation
Matthew 10:42, 1835 or 1836
Our merciful Lord, who does not let a cup of cold water go unrewarded.
#44 & #45, Mr. Zellner
Matthew 10:42, July 12, 1836
He who will reward even a cup of cold water in his name will surely reward your every step in our behalf.
#52, Mr. Kellner
Matthew 11:12, October 4, 1853
How painful is every good endeavor; yet, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and as your Reverence consistently uses this violence, you will receive the Kingdom.
#1476, Reverend Katz of Hirschau
Matthew 11:12, October 11, 1855
Conditions there are inimical to the Kingdom of God, which suffers violence everywhere.
#2044, written by Sister Joseph Hermanna for Theresa
Matthew 11:12, February 22, 1859
These happen whenever the sisters are asked to take over the schools; the kingdom of God suffers violence and contradictions from the world.
#2832, Frances Schwarz
Matthew 11:29, October 2, 1823
We must gradually acquire serenity of spirit in the school of Christ, who said, 'Shoulder my yoke and learn of me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.'
p. 3-4, Retreat Notes
Matthew 11:29, September 24, 1824
He can become meek since Jesus who commands us to be so cannot command the impossible
p. 14-15, Retreat Notes
Matthew 11:29, July 30, 1859
Do not forget, dear children, to go to the school of Jesus, and learn from Him not how to build new worlds or work miracles, but to become humble and gentle of spirit.
#2941, Postulants
Matthew 11:29, April 15, 1871
Learn of me, because I am meek and humble of heart.
#4554, Dear Children of God
Matthew 11:29, April 5, 1876
...for the Divine Bridegroom desires of his bride the virtues of meekness and humility above all. These are his favorite virtues, and according to his own word, we ought to imitate him in this most of all.
#5148, Sister Eutropia
Matthew 11:30, September 7, 1855
...make the yoke sweet and the burden light.
#2018, Pastor of Neustadt
Matthew 11:30, September 18, 1858
His grace, sweeten and lighten the heavy burden of your new pastoral office.
#2703, Reverend Father
Matthew 11:30, December 31, 1872
May the yoke of the Lord be sweet and his burden light.
#4757, Abbot of Scheysin
Matthew 12:25, 1859
A kingdom divided against itself cannot endure.
#3006, Entire Congregation
Matthew 12:25, Before 1859
A kingdom divided against itself already bears the seed of destruction within.
#2784 & #2785, Entire Congregation
Matthew 12:25, 1872
However, a kingdom divided against itself destroys itself.
p. 2583, All Houses
Matthew 12:28, October 30, 1878
If the work becomes heavy and difficult, the divine Bridegroom says from the tabernacle, "Come to Me all you who labor and are burdened; I will refresh you."
#5328, Sisters in Altenbuch
Matthew 13:22, January 12, 1855
Will you please help us pray that the good seed may not be choked by the thornbushes of evil inclinations?
#1826, Dean of Ernstkirchen
Matthew 13:23, April 2, 1854
May this seed, with the help of God, develop and become strong.
#1636, Reverend Dean
Matthew 13:23, July 6, 1856
If the Lord bestows growth and blessing on the seeds sown.
#2193, Prince Lowenstein
Matthew 13:23, October 21, 1857
...to teach and train the dear children for time and eternity, that the good seed may find fertile soil and yield abundant fruit.
#2477, Pastor of Velden
Matthew 13:23, August 4, 1859
May the tiny tree which we are planting in your diocese grow into a tree of life; may it blossom and bear fruit a hundredfold.
#2946, Bishop of Temesvar
Matthew 13:23, June 16, 1861
May he also grant that the seed which they have sown may bear good fruit.
#3264, Baroness von Beckendorf
Matthew 13:23, February 15, 1868
You are sowing a seed which will bring forth fruit a hundredfold, sweet fruit for which later generations will praise you as the originator of this project.
#4239, Reverend Pastor
Matthew 13:23, April 15, 1871
But we must never show ourselves unwilling to work, so that the seedlings of the divine word sown in us may be nourished in good ground and brought to fruition.
#4554, Children of God
Matthew 13:25, June 13, 1858
The enemy sought to sow tares among the wheat when all men were asleep.
#2632, Reverend Dean of Ebersdorf
Matthew 13:31, November 15, 1855
...as from a small mustard seed, a motherhouse may eventually evolve.
#2054, Bishop of Csanad-Temesvar
Matthew 13:31, December 16, 1855
I hope that the foundation in Warburg can prosper and that a sturdy tree can grow from the little mustard seed.
#2027, Pastor of Warburg
Matthew 13:31, May 12, 1856
...that with God's blessing the mustard seed will grow into a tree and will spread its branches to other places.
#2163, Reverend Rector
Matthew 13:31, January 7, 1857
...and from the small mustard seed, a tree will gradually develop, bearing much fruit.
#2345, Reverend Wucher
Matthew 13:31, January 20, 1857
...and from the mustard seeds, a tree with many branches may grow.
#2350, Dean of Steisslingen
Matthew 13:31, November 15, 1858
May it please God that the mustard seed dropped twenty-five years ago.
#2759, Father Anton Megringer
Matthew 13:31, February 26, 1861
The mustard seed has become a tree.
#3233, Cardinal of Vienna
Matthew 13:31, March 29, 1865
Even though we have only two houses in the diocese, we hope it may please God to expand it like mustard seeds.
#3841, Bishop of Freiburg
Matthew 13:31-32, March 8, 1841
...your gracious majesty provides. With a motherhouse near the royal palace, so that like a tree transplanted to better soil, it becomes stronger, spreads out its branches over the entire kingdom till the poor children of men come to rest in its shadow and refresh themselves with its fruit.
#246, King Louis
Matthew 13:31, NA
If God grants His blessing, the institute, though only a mustard seed, will be blessed and upon this everything depends.
#720, Bishop
Matthew 13:31-32, May 18, 1854
May the Almighty grant that from Breslau, the cradle of the Order in Silesia, a huge tree, under whose shadow the dear little ones may rest and enjoy themselves, may develop from the mustard seed.
#1664, Reverend Gaerth (Breslau)
Matthew 13:31-32, November 25, 1857
May God in His mercy grant that in the near future your diocese may have a motherhouse, so that the mustard seed which lies in the earth of your diocese, may come to life.
#2505, Archbishop Hermann of Freiburg
Matthew 13:32, October 1, 1823
Patience with self in the slow growth of the kingdom of God within is necessary so that true devotion may increase. Self prefers rapid, observable progress, but the kingdom of God grows, says the Lord.
p. 3, Retreat Notes
Matthew 13:38, November 25, 1854
Would that with God's grace the seed which the sisters sow in the hearts of the dear children may henceforth also germinate, sprout, and ripen, bearing fruit.
#1791, Miss Fanny
Matthew 13:44, NA
(He has chosen you) into the religious state, paradise on earth, where that incomparable treasure is hidden in God's field.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia.
Matthew 13:44, c. 1876
...where incomparable treasures hidden in God's soil can be found.
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
Matthew 14:26, September 25, 1824
If you desire Christ to be your master, you must follow him in word and example, abandoning self. Christ recommends his followers to hate their own lives for his sake, to leave father, mother, wife, children.
p. 16-17, Retreat Notes
Matthew 15:25, September 28, 1853
Like the Canaanite woman of the Gospel, I ask that you favor us until the affairs of the order are settled by the Holy See.
#1456, Bishop of Augsburg
Matthew 16:6, May 30, 1847
Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees.
#714, *My dearly
Matthew 16:18-19, March 6, 1861
The mighty of this world raise their arms in vain against her (Church) and they can achieve nothing, according to the word of the Lord, because his Church is built upon a rock and the gates of hell cannot prevail against it.
#3238, All the Sisters
Matthew 16:18, c.1865
...and hold fast to his Church against which the gates of hell shall not prevail.
#4405, Entire Congregation
Matthew 16:18, 1870
Of this, we are certain: that the Church built on a rock cannot perish.
#4518, Entire Congregation
Matthew 16:24, September 24, 1824
Whoever wishes to follow me must take up his cross daily.
# 3, On Patience Retreat Notes
Matthew 16:24, 1835 or 1836
Will you have the heart to live lifelong poverty.to renounce everything and to follow Christ and His cross?
#44 & 45, Aspirant Dollinger
Matthew 16:24, May 30, 1847
Let us, therefore, take to heart what He so lovingly tells us: "He who does not renounce all cannot be My disciple."
#714, *My dearly.
Matthew 16:26, August 29, 1843
What will it profit me if I win the whole world and suffer the loss of my own soul?
#445, Archbishop of Munich
Matthew 16:26, February 14, 1872
What would it profit us to gain the whole world and suffer the loss of our soul?
#4664, Pastor in St. Louis
Matthew 17:1, March 17, 1877
So again we are walking the way of the Cross, but Calvary leads to Tabor.
#5231, Sister Leodegar
Matthew 18:1-4, 1847
...never let us forget the love Jesus had for children.
#714, *Sisters
Matthew 18:5, December 28, 1856
In view of the fact that you do to Him whatever you do for His little ones in Laufen, He will do good for all of you, dear Sodalists, who share His work.
#2334, Women's Sodality
Matthew 18:10, February 7, 1865
You holy angels, who have been appointed as guardians to these children.
#3802, Commendation of Children to Blessed Virgin Mary
Matthew 18:10, August 20, 1862
The Holy Guardian Angels, whose feast was chosen for the opening of the branch house, will not fail to assist the sisters and children.
#3415, Pastor of Rottenburg
Matthew 18:34-35, September 24, 1824
The Master reproved the wicked servant, and ordered him to be bound hands and feet and cast into exterior darkness.
p. 14-15, Retreat Notes
Matthew 18:34-35, May 30, 1847
May no one share the fate of the unjust steward in the gospel. #714, *Dearly beloved companion sisters in Jesus
Matthew 19:13-15, July 30, 1859
Let your souls be enamored of love for those to whom the Lord said, "Come to me". He blessed them.
#2940, Novices
Matthew 19:13, November 19, 1859
For the love of the Lord who appeared on earth as a child and the friend of children, who blessed them and promised them the kingdom of heaven, who looks upon services to them as done to himself.
#2997, Reverend Dr. Barthomew Enders
Matthew 19:13, February 3, 1864
We shall try to justify your confidence in us by leading the children to Jesus that He may bless them.
#3633, Canon of Regensburg
Matthew 19:14, September 24, 1824
Jesus demands of all who wish to be his followers that they possess this most necessary foundation, that they become as little children.
p. 13-14, Retreat Notes
Matthew 19:14, November 25, 1857
Even though the beginning will be difficult, I say trustingly with our Lord, "Let the little ones come to me, because theirs is the kingdom of God."
#2502, Pastor Dobler
Matthew 19:29, September 8, 1874
...that the divine spouse will never let us be outdone in generosity, but returns to us with hundredfold interest, what we have done for the love of him with a pure intention.
#4964, Sister Mary Ambrosia
Matthew 19:29, June 21, 1858
Our merciful and gracious Father will reward your Highness family a thousandfold here and in eternity, for what you are doing for the spread and furthering of the Catholic Faith. Please, do not tire. No one pays higher interest on that kind of capital than the limitlessly rich and good God, as all who have thus served Him can testify.
#2638, Baron von Beckendorf
Matthew 20:1, November 9, 1839
How we relish the thought even now of working beside you in the vineyard of the Lord.
#164, Pastor at Wolfratschausen
Matthew 20:1, April 15, 1871
...you heard the invitation of the heavenly father, you responded with great zeal in order to qualify as useful laborers.
#4554, Children of God (novices)
Matthew 20:16, September 10, 1831
The first shall be last should be her constant consideration.
p. 32-33, #12, Humility Retreat Notes
Matthew 20:16, December 24, 1842
Many are called; few are chosen.
#386, Reverend Father
Matthew 20:18, April 3, 1835
It strengthens our trust in God, so that, contrary perhaps to all human prudence, we plunge into the work in his vineyard until the end of the journey, the end of the day.
#33, Frederica Ringseis
Matthew 20:22, NA
It is rather like the answer the Master gave to them, "You know not what you ask. Can you drink the chalice which I shall offer you?"
#44, Aspirant Dollinger
Matthew 21:18, December 31, 1870
The good God still lives in heaven. Without his will, no hair falls from our heads.
#4517, Entire Congregation
Matthew 21:18, 1872
Far from us to be terrified over this, rather, let us place our entire trust in God, without whose will not one hair falls from our heads.
#4760, All Houses
Matthew 21:41, Before 1859
...faithfully following their vocation, otherwise, God will reject us, and choose others more worthy to work in his chosen vineyard.
#2784 & 2785, Entire Congregation
Matthew 23:27-28, July 29, 1841
...a school which restricts itself only to instruction, resembles a decorated grave from which, even though outwardly adorned, nothing but corpses waltz out, who promptly poison.
#274, General Inspector-Toelz
Matthew 25:7-8, September 10, 1831
Am I prepared now for the great trip into eternity? Is my lamp burning and filled with the oil of good works in preparation for the coming of the Bridegroom?
p. 27, On Death Retreat Notes
Matthew 25:7, October 15, 1869
...and as prudent virgins gather oil for our lamps, in preparation for the still greater treasure of heaven.
#4380, Sister Mary Richards
Matthew 25:7, July 14, 1871
Let us endure this short testing period until we hear the summons, "The Bridegroom comes; up, away, hasten to meet him."
#4576, Candidate Marie
Matthew 25:7, April 5, 1876
I admonish you to use this time well, to fill your bridal lamp with oil and to adorn your bridal gown.
#5148, Sister Eutropia
Matthew 25:10, November 15, 1877
Be honest and upright toward your novice directress, and be humble of heart; you will then receive the grace of God and your lamps will be filled when the divine bridegroom calls you to the eternal banquet.
#5304, Novices of Baltimore
Matthew 25:12-13, May 30, 1847
And will not Jesus, as the bridegroom said to the foolish virgins, say to these worldly sisters, "I do not know you," since such sisters apparently do not adhere to Jesus but to the world.
#714, *My dearly.
Matthew 25:21, September 10, 1831
He who is faithful in small things will also be faithful in those which are greater. So too, he who is not faithful in small things will scarcely ever be faithful in the pursuit of the greater.
p. 25-26, Retreat Notes
Matthew 25:21, May 30, 1847
A sister who with simplicity of heart has added to her one talent another one through faithful accomplishment of her required tasks in conformity with the daily order and with good intention, will occupy in heaven one of the first places; while another sister who has used her five talents as she pleased, without due consideration to obedience and the daily order, and who imagines she has gained much, will stand before God empty-handed.
#714, *My dearly beloved.
Matthew 25:23, April 3, 1863
Pay attention also to the Holy Rule, even in the smallest things.
#3537, Sisters Juliana, Augustina, Taciana
Matthew 25:29, September 23, 1824
Of him who has received much, much will be asked.
p. 11, Tepidity Retreat Notes
Matthew 25:31-46, September 10, 1831
Come, you blessed of my Father, unto the Kingdom. I was hungry and you gave me to eat.
p. 28, Retreat Notes
Matthew 25:34, May 30, 1847
Some day the Lord will say to them: "Come, you good and faithful servants."
#714, *My dearly beloved companion sisters in Jesus
Matthew 25:34, July 22, 1859
"Come, good and faithful servant, into the joy of the Lord."
#2935, Reverend Dean of Toelz
Matthew 25:34, August 23, 1873
At its end he must certainly have heard, "Come, you faithful servant."
#4852, Reverend Father
Matthew 25:35, November 16, 1836
God must glorify you and all our benefactors. You fed us when we were hungry, you give us drink when we are thirsty.
#71, Frederica von Ringseis
Matthew 25:40, May 30, 1847
Whatsoever we do to the least we do to Jesus Himself.
#714, *Dearly loved.
Matthew 25:40, December 8, 1850
Let us keep in mind the emphatic words of Our Lord, "What you have done to the least of my brethren, you have done unto me."
#949, Entire Congregation
Matthew 26:10, March 15, 1822
The Lord said of Mary Magdalen, "What she has done for me is one of the good works indeed, and all that she had she gave completely."
p. 1, Retreat Notes
Matthew 26:13, March 15, 1822
The love of Jesus sees into the future; Who thought of the approaching death of Jesus when he said, "When she poured this ointment on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial."
p. 1, Retreat Notes
Matthew 26:42, September 23, 1824
...who in the agony of death called out, not my will but your will be done.
p. 9-10, Retreat Notes
Matthew 27:29, September 10, 1831
She will beg for the poorest clothing in remembrance of the purple cloak of mockery worn by Jesus.
p. 32-33, #12, Humility Retreat Notes
Matthew 28:18, May 30, 1847
All power has been given to Him in heaven and on earth.
#714, *My dearly.
Matthew 28:18, April 5, 1857
May the Lord, to whom all power is given in heaven and on earth.
#2386, Archbishop of Freiburg
Matthew 28:20, December 28, 1859
May God be with us! This is our consolation, that God rules the world, and that the Lord will not forsake His Church and those who hold fast to her.
#3001, Bishop of Temesvar
Mark
Mark 4:39-41, April 6, 1865
May He control the wind and waves, so that the storm may soon abate, and the little bark of Peter may glide smoothly again until it arrives safe in harbor with all who ride in it.
#3848, Archbishop of Freiburg
Mark 6:31, October 30, 1878
Do not forget what the divine Master said to his Apostles when they returned home exhausted at eventide, "Come apart and rest awhile."
#5327, Sister Ella
Mark 7:37, July 31, 1859
In consideration of all this, and especially in considering our beautiful conventual Holy Rule, all of us Sisters must surely cry out, "The Lord hath done all things well."
#2942, Entire Congregation
Mark 8:34, September 23, 1824
Let him who wishes to follow me deny himself.
p. 9-10, Retreat Notes
Mark 8:24-35, September 17, 1840
What we must do is embrace our cross daily, and not leave the dear Lord out of the picture.
#215, Reverend Katz
Mark 8:36, January 23, 1840
"For what would it profit us if we were to gain the whole world and thereby injure our souls. If the light be taken from the lantern and carried out into the open, no matter how carefully one guards it, it can easily be blown out by the wind.
#185, Archbishop of Munich
Mark 9:37, May 30, 1847
Of them (children) He said, "Whosoever receives one of these little ones in My name, receives Me."
#714, *Dearly loved companion sisters
Mark 10:48, September 23, 1824
Therefore with the blind in the gospels, I cry, "Jesus, Jesus, have mercy on me!"
p. 11-12, Retreat Notes
Mark 11:23-25, March 5, 1856
I trust in the powerful help from above, through which all is possible; even though mountains should have to be removed the enemy will be silenced and all will be calmed.
#2125, Reverend Helmsauer
Mark 11:24, June 1871
The Lord who has promised, "Pray and you shall receive.
#4571, Bishop of Temesvar
Mark 12:30, before 1859
Let us also be united in striving to know God above all things and finally begin to love God above all things and our neighbor as ourselves.
#2784
Mark 10:16, 1857
lead the children to Jesus that He might bless them. "Then He put his arms around them, laid his hands on them and gave them his blessing."
#2502, Sisters
Mark 10:22, 1868
We allowed her to leave, so our Lord did the young man who went away sadly, instead of following Him in perfection.
#4306, Entire Congregation
Mark 10:48, September 23, 1824
Therefore with the blind.in the gospels I cry, "Jesus, Jesus, have mercy on me!"
p. 11-12, Retreat Notes
Mark 12:30, before 1859
Let us also be united in striving to know God above all things and finally begin to love God above all things and our neighbor as ourselves.
#2784
Luke
Luke 1:28, November 15, 1877
"And the Virgin's name was Mary,"
#5304, Novices of Baltimore
Luke 1:37, March 13, 1843
With God all things are possible
#413, Pastor of Marktheidenfeld
Luke 1:37, December 18, 1864
With you, Oh Lord, all things are possible.
#3768, Archbishop of Munich
Luke 1:46, July 3, 1841
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior, who in His mercy and power has granted us a motherhouse.
#268, President of City Council
Luke 1:46-48, June 13, 1854
"My soul magnifies the Lord, for God has looked graciously on us, Poor School Sisters."
#1677, Archbishop of Munich
Luke 1:46-48, March 26, 1855
"Our souls magnify the Lord because He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaids."
#1886, Reverend Gaerth of Breslau
Luke 1:46, December 23, 1865
My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior.
#3972, Archbishop of Munich
Luke 1:47, c.1876
He has done great things to us, his lowly handmaids.
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
Luke 1:47ff, October 30, 1878
I know of nothing better than to recommend for your consideration the beautiful words of the Magnificat.
#5328, Sisters in Altenbuch
Luke 1:48
Thank him, therefore, praise him above all, for he does great things for us, his lowly handmaids.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Luke 1:48, November 21, 1876
She herself assures us in her beautiful hymn of praise, the Magnificat: "He has looked down upon the lowliness of His servant girl."
#5199, Final Vow Class- Temesvar
Luke 2:6, August 4, 1836
He has taken us into Bethlehem for the time being, that we may be unnoticed and hidden.
#58, Lady von Ringseis
Luke 2:6, December 28, 1840
May the Infant who has outgrown his crib find for us poor ones a shelter in which to live.
#236, Minister Von Abel
Luke 2:6, June 18, 1848
This is how we fare in this country. But it is not as hard as it was for the Infant Jesus, who was refused everywhere, found no welcome and was born in a stable.
#734, Reverend M. Siegert
Luke 2:6, April 3, 1849
Christ Himself began His life in a stable and heaven and earth are at His command.
#780, Dr. Mast, Rottenburg
Luke 2:6, November 11, 1863
Christ, Our Lord, came to the world in a stable, and lay in a manger, because there was no room in the inn.
#3613, Priest of London
Luke 2:6,15 (Matt. 2:11), December 31, 1870
Let us in these days, especially, go to the crib of Jesus with the poor shepherds and the holy wise men, with them offer our homage and sacrifice, so that we may share the peace of God which the angels announced on the plains of Bethlehem to those who are of good will.
#4517, Entire Congregation
Luke 2:7, September 12, 1839
Rather we shall begin small and poor, even as Our Lord in the stable at Bethlehem.
#151, Burgomaster of Altomunster
Luke 2:8, February 26, 1861
The birthplace of our dear Lord in Bethlehem.
#3233, Cardinal of Vienna
Luke 2:14, December 13, 1853
May the Divine Savior on His approaching birthday, give you such heavenly peace as the angels announced to those of good will.
#1536, Mr. Bell of Neumarkt
Luke 2:29, June 9, 1859
With Simeon I cry out with deep consolation, "Now Lord you have kept your promise! You may let your servant go in peace."
#2912, Entire Congregation
Luke 2:29, December 23, 1865
With Simeon, the holy old man, I would like to cry out, "Now I will gladly die, because I have lived to see this."
#3972, Archbishop of Munich
Luke 2:46-48, September 25, 1870
The Divine Wisdom, who 1800 years ago as a Child, won the Victory in the temple at Jerusalem, has also in our day triumphed over the sophistry of the world in Hungary.
#4485, To Bishop of Csanad (Hungary)
Luke 2:49-50, NA
Therefore, with Jesus, announce to all secular acquaintances, relatives and friends, "Do you not know that I must be about that which belongs to my Jesus?" Say farewell to all of them.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Luke 2:49-50, c. 1876
Do you not know that I must be concerned with the things of Jesus?
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
Luke 2:51, c. 1834
The more united and loving we should and must be within our houses, living like the holy family at Nazareth among ourselves and with each other.
#4405, Entire Congregation
Luke 5:5, February 15, 1868
He does not let our confidence go unrewarded, if we throw out our nets in the name of Jesus.
#4239, Reverend Pastor
Luke 6:26, May 30, 1847
Woe to you if men speak well of you, they have done this to the false prophets too.
#714, *My dearly.
Luke 6:38, March 8, 1841
will certainly reward you here and hereafter, with "full measure, shaken down and overflowing," for all you have done for us, the very least of His children.
#246, King Louis of Bavaria
Luke 6:38, May 30, 1847
As we measure to others, so the dear Lord will measure to us.
#714, *Dearly loved companions in Jesus
Luke 6:48, December 29, 1857
The Lord wished the foundation to be laid deep, so that His house may stand more firmly and prove more enduring for the future.
#2527, Bishop of Csanad
Luke 7:38, c. 1834
or resting at your feet with Magdalen I shall seek my consolation there
#29, Reflections
Luke 7:38, October 15, 1869
If in our wretchedness, we have sometimes stumbled, let us correct the false steps, like Magdalen blot out our stains through tears of loving contrition.
#4380, Sister Mary Richards
Luke 9:23, 1870
Let us take up our cross and follow after Jesus.
#2464, Spiritual Children in America
Luke 9:23, NA
Let us daily take up our cross and follow after Jesus.
#4520, Dear Spiritual Children in America
Luke 9:62, October 15, 1869
We shall once more put our hand to the plow and never look back to the sorrowful vale of the world, but with steady eyes strive toward our sublime goal, so that we may happily reach it.
#4380, Sister Mary Richards
Luke 10:16, February 4, 1841
I recognize in your Reverence a servant of Jesus of whom He Himself said, "Who hears you hears me."
#241, Reverend Fuchs at Spalt
Luke 10:39, c. 1834
or resting at your feet with Magdalen I shall seek and find my consolation there.
p. 48, #29, Retreat Reflections
Luke 10:40, February 25, 1855
But let us not forget, dear Theophila, the interior devotion of Mary in the exterior business of Martha; let us rest from time to time at the feet of Jesus.
#1862, Sister Theophila, Baltimore
Luke 11:28, September 10, 1831
those who hear the word of God and devoutly follow it
p. 29-30, #11, Retreat Notes
Luke 12:31, January 10, 1858
At the same time I pray the dear Lord may guide all things for the best, for those who seek only God's kingdom and His justice, all things work together unto good.
#2540, Widow Joanna
Luke 12:32, September 24, 1824
Fear not, little flock.
p. 13-14, Retreat Notes
Luke 14:10, September 24, 1824
and elect to be last.
p. 13-14, Retreat Notes
Luke 15:7, c. 1834
Rather, I shall rejoice greatly when you seek and find and through me make holy what had been lost.
p. 48, #29, Retreat Notes
Luke 15:4-7, c. 1834
Her motherly concern embraces all and perhaps she is more concerned for those who stray from the right path. In this she is like the Good Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to seek the lamb that was lost!
#29, Reflections
Luke 15:7, c. 1834
Oh how the shepherd rejoices over the lamb that was found.
#29, Reflections
Luke 15:21, c.1834
If the child returns repentant, the mother receives it as the merciful father in the gospel received the prodigal son who was lost but returned.
#29, Reflections
Luke 16:2, September 10, 1831
Give an account of your stewardship.
p. 32,p. 32, #13, Humility Retreat Notes
Luke 16:19-31, September 10, 1831
"What heat, what thirst", cried Dives, and he received not even a drop of cool water or a second's relief.
p. 29, #12, on "Hell" Retreat Notes
Luke 17:10, September 10, 1831
In her faithful performance she considers herself a useless servant.
p. 3
Luke 17:13, September 23, 1824
Therefore with.and the lepers in the gospels I cry, "Jesus, Jesus, have mercy on me."
p. 11-12, Retreat Notes
Luke 18:14, September 10, 1831
Oh God, have mercy on me a poor sinner.
p. 32, #13, Humility Retreat Notes
Luke 19:9, November 17, 1869
as He once did on Zacheus, and address to them also the consoling words: "Today I will come into your house."
#4390, Archbishop of Csanad Temesvar
Luke 19:10, July 22, 1861
as our dear Lord Himself came to seek sinners and not the just.
#3268, Reverend Hoermann of Poxau
Luke 19:10, January, 1871
Did not our Lord also come to seek and save what was lost?
#4534, Confessor at Neunburg
Luke 19:17, November 2, 1862
I would also like to entrust to your hearts a motherly work namely, to be faithful in little things.
#3467, Novices of Gorizia
Luke 21:2, November 2, 1853
If the Lord accepted with pleasure the small coin of the widow placed in the temple treasury, how much more will he be pleased to receive the gift that your Excellency has placed in the hands of his representative.
#1496, Mr. Bell of Neumarkt
Luke 21:2, January 29, 1855
Please God, the establishment of a novitiate in Silesia may be accomplished soon, so that we can contribute our mite for the training of youth.
#1836, Bishop of Breslau
Luke 21:2, March 8, 1855
How could we now do otherwise than unite with your Reverence in praising God, and contributing our mite, so that God's work can finally be completed.
#1873, Pastor of Legau
Luke 21:2, September 7, 1855
We, too, will add our mite.
#2018, Pastor of Neustadt
Luke 21:2, November 15, 1855
It would be most pleasing to us to be able to contribute a mite for the honor of God.
#2053, Bishop of Csanad
Luke 21:2, February 27, 1856
To which we can add our mite.
#2116, Pastor of Hienheim
Luke 21:2, NA
If the Lord so wills that we, the Poor School Sisters, contribute our mite.
#2185, Reverend Father Spiritual
Luke 21:2, December 28, 1856
May it be a source of consolation to you that you place your mite before the Lord, and thus reap such a rich reward.
#2334, Women's Sodality
Luke 21:2, April 8, 1861
sisters, supported with the grace of God contribute their mite.
#3242, Bishop of Csanad - Temesvar
Luke 21:2, March 21, 1864
We offer to supply the furnishings for the bedrooms of the factory girls so that we, too, can contribute our mite.
#3650, Countess von Freiss - Vienna
Luke 21:2, October 27, 1864
Kindly accept the enclosed mite from the Poor School Sisters as an offering of love and gratitude.
#3748, Holy Father via "Your Eminence"
Luke 21:2, December 26, 1867
Like the poor widow in the Gospel we bring our Peter's pence.
#4220, Holy Father
Luke 21:18, April 21, 1868
God only knows what the end will be; our consolation rests in the thought that His Holy Providence watches over us, and that no hair will fall from our heads against His adorable will.
#4255, Cardinal Protector Clarelli
Luke 21:18, 1872
Far from us to be terrified over this, rather, let us place our entire trust in God, without whose will not one hair falls from our head.
#4760, All Houses
Luke 22:27, 1859
As brides of the derided, suffering Savior, we join with the women who wept and grieved. We are misjudged by the world.
#3006, Entire Congregation in America
Luke 22:27, April 3, 1863
The Lord Jesus will pour trust, peace and joy into our hearts as once he rewarded the pious women who wept for Him on Good Friday and Saturday.
#3537, Sisters Juliana, Augustina, Taciana
Luke 22:42-43, July 3, 1873
we must accept the decision and say, "Thy will be done."
#4819, Reverend Hofensteiner
Luke 23:34, 1835
When we dismiss individuals such as these as unsuitable, the ignorant populace cry out against us violently. God forgive them for they know not what they do.
#38, Frederica Ringseis
Luke 23:34, May 30, 1847
after the example of Jesus Who on the cross prayed for His enemies.
#714, *My dearly loved.
Luke 23:46, September 23, 1824
Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit.
p. 9-10, Retreat Notes
Luke 24:26, August 28, 1878
if it was necessary that Christ should suffer in order to enter into his glory, it is also necessary that those who follow him, especially those who want to live intimately with him enter their glory by the same path.
#5323, Entire Congregation
Luke 24:32, April 3, 1863
The Lord will pour trust, peace and joy . . . and the young men who went to Emmaus.
#3537, Sisters Juliana, Augustina, Taciana
?, December 31, 1870
But man proposes and God disposes.
#4517, Entire Congregation
John
John 1:11, October 4, 1856
It is like our Redeemer, Who came into the world and the world received Him not. All the works of God proceed slowly and in pain; therefore their roots are sturdier, and their flowering the lovelier.
#2277, Frances Schwarz
John 2:5, June 9, 1859
Do whatever he tells you.
#2905, Entire Congregation
John 2:5, June 9, 1859
We can best show our gratitude in living this Holy Rule, trying to do everything as perfectly as possible, striving as our Blessed Lady warns: to do whatever He tells us.
#2912, Entire Congregation
John 2:3-4, January 15, 1860
Our Lady, the immaculately conceived will ask her divine Son to help, since the wine is running short.
#3020, Bishop of Brixin
John 2:4, January, 1871
The Blessed Mother whom you honor with such childlike devotion will provide as she did at Cana, that the wine of heavenly consolation, enlightenment and strength will not run out.
#4534, Confessor at Neunberg
John 2:5, 25, February 18, 1871
children shall be taught the special meaning of church feasts, i.e. Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, May devotion, especially veneration of the Mother of God.
#4537, NA
John 3:14-15, September 24, 1824
Jesus says, He who believes is already saved.
p. 12-13, Retreat Notes
John 4:34, September 23, 1824
O Jesus, you who witnessed through your life and death that your food was to do the will of the Father.
p. 9-10, Retreat Notes
John 5:40-44, May 30, 1847
For the Lord himself says, "How can you have faith since you accept honors from each other?"
#714, *Dearly Beloved Companion
Sisters in Jesus
John 9:4, September 10, 1831
Let us do good while we have time, and it is day.
p. 32, #13, Humility Retreat Notes
John 10:11, September 12, 1859
May Jesus, the Good Shepherd, give you strength and wisdom.
#2967, Bishop of Augsburg
John 10:11, February 17, 1863
We also appreciate the patience with which you have borne their (SSND's) faults and weakness, and for the goodness with which you have time and again led them back to the Good Shepherd, our Lord Jesus Christ.
#3513, Canon of Cathedral
John 10:14, September 24, 1824
Give me but your love and your grace, humility and spiritual strength for penance that I may give witness and prove that I am a sheep, a lamb that belongs to you, my good Shepherd.
p. 16, #3, On Patience Retreat Notes
John 10:14, March 3, 1863
Give your heart to your superiors like a child to its mother; let yourselves be led like blind men by their guide, like sheep by their shepherd for the sake of the Lord.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
John 12:24, 1833
If the grain of wheat does not fall into the ground and die, it remains alone; when, however, it has died, it will bring forth much fruit."
p. 35, #16, Reflection on use of time
John 13:1, c.1834
Then I shall love all my enemies as you, Divine Savior, loved Judas.
#29, Reflections
John 13:34, October 30, 1878
.the peacemakers, because we have chosen the common life in order that by conciliation and friendship, by sisterly love and patient endurance of the faults of others, we might fulfill the new commandment which the Lord has given us.
#5328, Sisters in Altenbuch
John 13:35, May 30, 1847
This is the sign by which we will be recognized as perfect religious, disciples and brides of Christ, that we love one another after the example of Jesus.
#714, *My dearly loved.
John 13:35, December 8, 1850
This love is the criterion which will convince the world that our faith is united in Jesus, that we belong to Jesus, that we are His disciples and followers.
#949, 6 Entire Congregation
John 13:35, January 23, 1854
He (Holy Father) expects us to grow from virtue to virtue, and to live with one another in sisterly love, so that the world may know we are disciples of Christ.
#1581, Sisters
John 13:35, c. 1869
Then even our enemies will testify for us, as the pagans once said of the first Christians: See how they love one another.
#4405, Entire Congregation
John 13:34-35, NA
Love one another as Jesus has loved us all, so that the world may know that you are his disciples, that you dedicate yourself to him, that you belong to Jesus.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
John 13:35, c. 1876
Love one another as Jesus loves us all, so that the world will know you are his disciples.
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
John 14:6, May 30, 1847
"May He be the Way you walk, the Truth you follow, the Life you lead."
#714, *To: all sisters
John 14:6, December 29, 1856
May He ever be the Way along which you walk, the Truth and the Life.
#2324, Your Lordship
John 14:13, 1870
Whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you.
#4521, Entire Congregation
John 14:13, NA
Let us henceforth pray in this most holy name, Jesus, and we shall be heard.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
John 14:14, March 3, 1863
Ask and we shall be given everything we need to achieve perfection.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
John 15:2-3, March 15, 1822
This purification I leave in the hands of the Vinedresser. He will trim and prune the branches, although this be painful.
p. 1, Retreat Notes
John 15:5, October 2, 1823
How can a branch be a branch if it is not attached to the vine? How can we become renewed as we are destined to be by God Himself, if we do not receive the eternally New, and are not united with him?
p. 5, Retreat Notes
John 15:4-5, October 21, 1841
Like the vine torn from its branch which withers and dies, in vain do you expect fruit from it.
#294, Royal Inspector at Amberg
John 15:5, September 24, 1824
Without me you can do nothing.
p. 13-14, Retreat Notes
John 15:5, July 30, 1859
Without Jesus we can do nothing.
#2941, Postulants
John 15:6, Before 1859
A branch cut from the tree must die sooner or later.
#2784 & 2785, Entire Congregation
John 15:6, 1859
A branch which cuts itself off from the stem withers away and is thrown into the fire.
#3006, Entire Congregation
John 15:6, March 3, 1863
A branch torn from the tree dries up and ends in the fire.Thus will our Order fare, if we the sisters, do not preserve our unity as the apple of our eye.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
John 15:16, NA
He has chosen you from the world as his possession.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
John 15:16, November 15, 1877
You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, says the good Lord.
#5304, Novices of Baltimore
John 15:20, September 11, 1855
This, in his Divine Providence, which does not will things to be better for the servants than they were for the Master.
#2021, Reverend Spiritual Advisor
John 15:20, March 3, 1863
We are misjudged and despised by the world, but in a short while we shall again see our heavenly bridegroom.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
John 15:20, August 30, 1875
As they have persecuted me, they will persecute you.
#5089, Admininstrator at Mellrichstadt
John 16:8, September 24, 1824
By our active effort to follow Jesus we show our love of him, and he will love us according to his divine nature. Thus, God the Father, too, loves us, because he sees in us his only son, whom he loves. The entire circle of love is thus entirely completed, and the kingdom of God is opened wide.
pp. 12-13, Retreat Notes
John 16:13, March 23, 1841
Yes, He makes all things right. If only He will send us His Holy Spirit, He may do with us what He likes.
#248, Bishop of Ratisbon
John 16:13, September 24, 1824
"If we wish to imitate Jesus, we must make his spirit our own."
p. 12, Retreat Notes
John 16:20, May 30, 1847
You will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice.
#714, *My dearly.
John 16:20, March 3, 1863
Then our brief sorrow will turn to joy.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
John 16:33, September 14, 1856
Unfriendly groups have fought the plan for eighteen years, yet the Lord conquers.
#1720, Reverend Max Barth
John 17:3, September 10, 1831
And this heaven begins for the blessed here on earth. "This is eternal life," says Jesus Christ, "that they may know you O Father, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."
p. 29, Heaven Retreat Notes
John 17:12, 21, September 25, 1824
In Holy Communion we unite ourselves with the holy humanity, as also with the divinity, and thus we are one with him and he with us. In being one we shall also be one through him with the Father, and the Father with us. Then we shall be one with the Son and the Father, in union with divinity and with one another in communion.
p. 17-18, Retreat Notes
John 17:12, November 23, 1877
Hers were the words of the Lord, "Holy Father, I have kept them in your name whom you have given me and none of them has been lost.
#5311, Entire Congregation
(written by sisters remembering the night Mother Theresa almost died)
John 17:18-19, November 23, 1877
"Be God-fearing, remain true to one another, and persevere in the difficult time of the present and future. Peace will come again."
#5311, Entire Congregation
John 17:21, October 2, 1823
Every new union with him creates a new hunger, a hunger that is itself a new peace because the Beloved and I are one.
p. 5, Retreat Notes
John 17:21, Before 1859
but that true love of God and neighbor will fasten our hearts to the Heart of Christ and make us one in Him.
#2784 & 2785, Entire Congregation
John 17:21, March 3, 1863
We must all of us remain as one, as sisters, just as the Lord is one with the faithful.
#3520, Novices in Gorizia
John 18:10, NA
Let us not join in the complaints and invectives against authority, for they who draw the sword shall perish by the sword.
#4405, Entire Congregation
John 19:25, December 7, 1834
We do not have a picture of Our Lady, Mother of Sorrows, but we expect to receive one of Mary and John standing under the cross, and these, with the images now above the tabernacle, complete our altar.
#25, Frederica von Ringseis
John 19:25, c.1834
Thus I shall love creatures only for your sake, and standing with Mary beneath the cross.or resting at your feet with Magdalen (Luke 7:28) I shall seek and find my consolation there.
#29, Reflections
John 19:25, c.1834
"As a fervent daughter of Mary, the most holy Virgin, I must serve him, not rule; with Mary I shall remain in contemplative prayer at the crib (Luke 2:6) and under the cross, serving Christ in all, loving him in all, and crucified to all that is not his will."
#29, Reflections
John 19:25, 1852
I often visualize the Blessed Virgin standing beneath the cross as I meditate on the words, 'she stood.'
#1250, Doctor Schels
John 19:25, October 20, 1853
Now, however, your 'mater dolorosa' comes, who even though unworthy has stood faithfully at the foot of the Cross.
#1490, Reverend Gaerth of Breslau
John 19:25, May 18, 1854
Our sorrowful Mother whose hand has guided us meaningfully to this part of Prussia, stands by the Cross. It befits us her daughters, to gather around her, for where the Cross is, Christ is not far distant.
#1664, To:Reverend Gaerth of Breslau
John 19:25, June 9, 1859
On this solemn occasion, let me offer my deepest gratitude to all the sisters who persevered during all this time of suffering, standing faithfully with me at foot of the cross; who were not deceived either by scorn or derision from without, nor by infidelity and desertion from within, but remained loyal to the Generalate in complete affection and devotion."
#2912, Entire Congregation
John 19:25-27, February 7, 1865
We unite with Joachim and Anna offering you in the temple; with the offering you made to the heavenly Father of your divine Son on the Cross, with the offering He made of you to John.
#3802, Commendation of the Children to the Blessed Virgin Mary
John 19:25, December 20, 1856
I beg you to continue to support the sisters with your good prayers, that they may always be true followers of the Crucified and not run away from the Cross.
#2323, Pastor of Neumarkt
John 19:25, Before January 1859
On the feast of the Sorrowful Mother the Sisters who do heavy work should remain fasting until noon, on Good Friday until afternoon and on Saturdays until noon.
#2780, 18 Circular to all
John 19:25, February 2, 1861
The feast of the Sorrowful Mother and Good Friday we will spend in loving memory of the sufferings of Jesus and Mary, placing ourselves beneath the cross with Mary in every painful situation.
#3222, Entire Congregation
John 20:17, September 25, 1824
"Do not touch me," he said to Mary Magdalen. "Do not cling to me, for I have not yet risen to my Father."
p. 16-17, Retreat Notes
John 21:19, September 24, 1824
[After this he said, "Follow me."]
O Jesus, I resolve in your presence to follow you alone.
p. 12-13, Retreat Notes
John 19:25, 1872
We will not shrink from the dear cross which faces us, for where the cross is, Christ is near.
#4760, All Houses
Acts
Acts 2:4, c1876
It is here, as once before in the supper room at Jerusalem, that the Holy Spirit pours out His heavenly consolation.
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
Acts 2:4, NA
Where the Holy Spirit pours out heavenly graces and consolations, even today as once in the cenacle at Jerusalem.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Acts 2:21, NA
(Name of Jesus) This it is which rescues us from our misery and from all distress.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Acts 2:42, 1872
In quiet retirement let us, sisters and spouses of Christ, like the first Christians, joyfully in love and simplicity, persevere together, and gladly go to a martyr's death for each other.
#2583, All the Houses
Acts 3:6, NA
This name, "Jesus", brings consolation and joy to us who are sorrowing; it is heavenly remedy for us, who are sick, a remedy which heals all wounds and infirmities.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Acts 4:32, December 8, 1850
What should I say regarding sisterly charity which should permeate us like that of the early Christians who were of one heart and one mind.
#949, Entire Congregation
Acts 4:32, Before 1859
May God grant His grace, that the Reverend Bishops find in all our Sisters that holy love which characterized the first Christians who were of one heart and one soul.
#2783, Entire Congregation
Acts 4:32, 1859
Even though we should be scattered throughout the world in various climates and cultures, let us cling to our Catholic heritage which embraces the whole world, which forms one heart and one mind: Cor unum et anima mea.
#3006, Entire Congregation
Acts 4:32, February 2, 1861
some excelling in humility, others yielding in humility, become one heart and one soul before God.
#3222, Entire Congregation
Acts 4:32, January 27, 1863
for our good priests offer themselves to their mission with one heart and soul.
#3494, Reverend Stangl
Acts 4:32, 1866-7
As necessary as it would seem, during our troubled times, to come together for retreat in order to renew our spirit and to unite ourselves very closely with God, so that being one heart and one soul as the community of the first Christians.
#4104, Congregation
Acts 4:32, May 3, 1868
If only you had sent us a few sisters when we asked than our dual purpose would have been fulfilled. We might have trained these sisters in the spirit of the constitution, and then sent them back to America to continue working there. They would then be able to help you carry the burden since they would be one with us in mind and heart.
#4262, Mother Caroline
Acts 4:32, NA
Be always of one heart and mind, like the first Christians who edified pagans and Jews and led them to Christianity.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Acts 4:32, c.1876
Be of one heart and one mind as the first Christians were
#5210, Children of God in Milwaukee
Acts 5:4, May 30, 1847
therefore we are now obliged to practice holy poverty if we do not want to encounter the same misfortune of eternal death that befell Ananias and Sapphira
#714, *My dearly loved sisters.
Acts 12: 5-11, May 30, 1847
keep firmly united, do as the first Christians did when Peter was once in prison for the sake of Jesus. They prayed for him to the Almighty with one voice day and night, and his fetters fell off.
#714, *My dearly loved sisters.
Acts 12:5-11, January 26, 1874
we bring our fervent prayer as did the first Christians, when their head, Peter, lay in chains from which the angels freed him.
#4893, Bishop of Breslau
Romans
Romans 5:12-14, September 24, 1824
But have we not deserved suffering? Have we not all sinned in Adam, and with Adam?
p. 15, #3, On Patience Retreat Notes
Romans 8:28, May 31, 1856
Everything is to our good if only we love Him.
p. 1325, Miss Fanny
Romans 8:28, c.1866
To those who love God all things work together unto good.
#4050, Entire Congregation
Romans 8:28, November 7, 1873
However, St. Paul assures us that the love of Christ will overcome everything. i.e. "We know that by turning everything to their good God cooperates with those who love him, with all those that he has called according to his promise."
#4870, Reverend Doctor and Senator
Romans 8:28, 1878
The future lies before us, shrouded in darkness; only one star shines through the night; faith in the fatherly Providence of God. "which, to those who love him, will let all things turn out for the best."
#5330, To: Sister Theodosia on her 25 th jubilee
Romans 8:31, June 15, 1856
But if the Lord is with us, no one shall be able to do anything against us.
#2178, Pastor Bernhard
Romans 8:31, December 10, 1863
And if God in his omnipotence and mercy be for us, who can then be against us?
#3614, Mother Caroline
1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians 1:18, March 3, 1863
But through the power of the Cross of Christ, through the spirit of the Lord through Holy love, that youth will be converted and led to God.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
1 Corinthians1:21-23, January 29, 1844
Their going suits us very well, because to both, the teaching of Christ crucified was foolishness.
#496, Archbishop of Munich
1 Corinthians 2:9, 1834
As a special reward he will grant us divine peace here on earth, and in eternity what no eye has seen nor heart has felt.
#29, Reflection
1 Corinthians 3:6, July 30, 1859
It is not he who plants, nor he who waters, but He who gives the increase.
#2941, Postulants
1 Corinthians 3:7, May 7, 1858
God grant increase to our planting and watering.
#2610, Dean of Augsburg
1 Corinthians 3:6-9, June 9, 1857
May God, from Whom alone all good comes, grant increase and growth to the sowing and planting.
#2418, Bishop of Eichstadt
1 Corinthians 3:8, July 30, 1859
But it is not he who plants, nor he who waters, but He who gives the increase.
#2941, Postulants
1 Corinthians 5:6-7, May 30, 1847
Let us all at once begin seriously to throw out the old leaven.
#714, *My dearly loved sisters.
1 Corinthians 7:34-35, March 3, 1863
We do so especially so that, free from all fetters, we may devote ourselves to God and to our profession with an entire and undivided heart.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
1 Corinthians 10:12, May 3, 1879
"He who stands, let him take heed lest he fall."
#5336, Signed: Margarita Cortona
All sisters
1 Corinthians12:11, January 23, 1854
On the strength of the present decree His Holiness eulogizes the Congregation, and recommends it, so that in the future the Sisters may become more virtuous, and be even more concerned about the gifts of the Spirit.
#1581, Entire Congregation
1 Corinthians 12:27 1859
let us look upon one another as members of one body, hasten to each others aid, be built up by one another.
#3006 Entire Congregation in America
1 Corinthians 12:27, March 3, 1863
Let us consider ourselves and each other as limbs of one body.
#3250, Novices of Gorizia
1 Corinthians 13:1, 1859
In this way we shall, indeed, by living holy lives, be guiding stars for the children; our words will not be futile as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals, whose sound fades away.
#3006, Entire Congregation in America
1 Corinthians 13:2, March 3, 1863
Thus our words will not ring with a barren sound, like resounding brass and tinkling bells.
#3520, Novices in Gorizia
1 Corinthians 13:2-12, July 30, 1859
Were we to know all things, even then all our knowledge would be imperfect says the Apostle.
#2941, Postulants
2 Corinthians
2 Corinthians 4:10, September 24, 1824
With St. Paul every Christian says "I bear the wounds of Jesus on my body."
p.15, #3, On Patience Retreat Notes
2 Corinthians 9:7-8, July 30, 1859
We should be radiant with joy in Christ the Lord, for the Lord loves a cheerful giver.
#2941, Postulants
2 Corinthians 12:9, November 20, 1838
May God, in his power and mercy continue to work on in us, showing in the weak his power and might.
#131, Reverend Fink
2 Corinthians 12:9, November 30, 1854
Honor and thanks to the Lord who so readily manifests to the weak the miracle of his might and wisdom.
#1795, Pastor of Hienheim
2 Corinthians12:9, September 10, 1865
He likes to choose the weak to glorify Him
#3924, Reverend Schmitter
2 Corinthians 12:10, October 1, 1823
He permits us to live in our weakness so that we may learn his strength.
p. 3-4, Retreat Notes
2 Corinthians 12:10, January 21, 1856
He it is who makes use of the weak in order to reveal His power, wisdom, and love.
#2098, Augsburg Orphanage
2 Corinthians 12:10, February 18, 1857
Almighty allows Himself to use the weak as His instrument to carry out His counsels.
#2363, Reverend Enders of Amberg
2 Corinthians 12:9, May 8, 1858
and I praise the Lord that he deigns to glorify Himself in His weak creatures by giving increase to our planting and watering.
#2617, Pastor at Frieberg
2 Corinthians 12:10, December 14, 1874
"In this my weakness," says the Apostle, "is my strength."
#5014, Sister Eutropia
2 Corinthians 12:10, November 10, 1877
"In this my weakness," says the Apostle, "is my strength."
#5301, Sister Oswina
Ephesians
Ephesians 2:3, September 24, 1824
"We are children of wrath". Says St. Paul
p. 14-15, Retreat Notes
Ephesians 2:20, October 22, 1854
Let us pray together that God who laid the cornerstone, directed and completed the constructions, will also be the keystone of His work.
#1754, Reverend Hoermann
Ephesians 3:18, March 3, 1863
Let us help one another in love to build together in love.
#3520, Novices in Gorizia
Ephesians 4:26, 1872
and lovingly offering one another the hand of forgiveness before the sun sets.
#4760, All Houses
Ephesians 4:32, April 22, 1862
Reverend Director, let us be reconciled with one another, since God himself always does under these conditions, and commands us all to do likewise. I beg you, Reverend Director for Jesus' sake, who died for us on the cross.
#3350, Reverend Baustaedter of Weichs
Philipians
Philippians 1:6, August 4, 1854
He who began this work will, if He so pleases, see that it ripens to completion.
#1685, Reverend Anthony Schmitler
Philippians 1:6, June 30, 1856
The Lord, who has begun this work will also, if it be His Holy Will, bring about its completion.
#2184, Reverend Stadter
Philippians 2:7, September 10, 1831
Simply, modestly, and patiently, she accepts this suffering in the service of Him who emptied Himself for us.
p. 31-32, #12, Humility Retreat Notes
Philippians 2:8, September 10, 1831
He was obedient unto death.
p. 39-31, #12, Humility Retreat Notes
Philippians 2:9, NA
It is like oil poured out, honey to our mouth, sweet melody to our ear, balm and jubilation to the heart, a name above all names in which our salvation and bliss rest.
#4523, Novices of Gorizia
Philippians 2:12, September 23, 1824
The word of the great St. Paul remains true, "Work out your salvation in fear and trembling."
p. 11-12, Retreat Notes
Colissians
Colossians 3:9, July 30, 1859
Put off the old man
#2941, Postulants
2 Timothy
2 Timothy 1:12, 1859
let us put our whole hope in the Almighty, infinitely merciful God, and through the intercession of Mary, let us not complain or be afraid
#3007, Entire Congregation
Hebrews
Hebrews 12:2, February 21, 1863
Do not let Jesus out of your sight.
#3508, Postulants of Temesvar
Hebrews 12:2, March 3, 1863
Keep your eyes and your hearts steadily on Jesus.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
Hebrews 12:2, 1866-7
With our eyes directed toward Jesus.
#4104, Congregation
Hebrews 13:14, 1859
Truly we have not here a lasting dwelling. Our true fatherland, our patria, is in heaven.
#3006, Entire Congregation in America
Hebrews 13:14-16, March 3, 1863
Furthermore, none of us have a permanent home here. Our true home and country lies in heaven.
#3520, Novices of Gorizia
1 John
1 John 2:15-17, May 30, 1847
Oh who should not be terrified by the words of the holy apostle. "The lovers of the world are the enemies of Christ."
#714, *My dearly loved sisters
1 John 4:8, September 22, 1824
God is love and He does nothing outside his love.
p. 8-9, Retreat Notes
1 John 4:16, December 8, 1850
What we earnestly desire we should continue to carry out, to love one another for God's sake. Where there is love, there is God.
#949, Entire Congregation
Revelation
Revelation 3:14-15, September 23, 1824
Tepidity is. "a state of the soul which is not against God, but also is not for him. Such a soul has not determined whether it is for God and the things of God. It resembles water which is neither cold nor hot but is lukewarm.
p. 10-11, #3, On Tepidity Retreat Notes
Revelation 12:7, January 9, 1858
May you have many an opportunity to fight for right and justice as St. Michael, at the head of the angelic choir, once fought so gloriously against the rebel angels.
#2539, Reverend Braun
Revelation 12:11, September 24, 1824
Jesus revealed to St. John at Patmos that they who are blessed wash their garments in the blood of the Lamb.
p. 15, #3, On Patience Retreat Notes
Revelation 12:11, September 12, 1854
so that the redeemed will someday adore and thank their redeemer in heaven, through whose blood they have been saved, the Blood of the Lamb.
#2967, Bishop of Augsburg
Revelation 14:4, September 25, 1824
Virgin souls, the companions of Jesus and Mary follow wherever the Lamb goes singing the song no others can
Revelation 19:5-8, November 10, 1829
We shall rejoice in the holy company of apostles and martyrs, etc. whose deeds will shine in heaven, as through Jesus Christ, who has animated them, they stand before God in glory.
p. 28-9, "Heaven" Retreat Notes
Revelation 19:8, July 30, 1859
Therefore, rejoice always in the Lord.We are on our way to the marriage feast of the Lamb.
#2941, Postulants
Revelation 21:27, May 31, 1854
The Lord will write in the book of life the names of those who spread His kingdom on earth.
#1673, President of Suabia
Revelation 21:27, June 28, 1856
Each day will then produce a new record in the Book of Life.
#2182, Director at Weichs
Revelation 21:27, January 5, 1859
The sacrifice which you made, Reverend Father, is certainly recorded in the Book of Life.
#2791, Pastor of Geiselhoering
Revelation 22:20, October 4, 1823
When I come to die may my whole being cry out with St. John the Apostle, "Come, Lord Jesus!"
p. 7-8, Retreat Notes