Not very often am I called to write about Catholic-specific things. Whether it’s because God knows I would just mess it up, or for some other, obscure reason, generally speaking, the Holy Spirit leads me to write about topics I’m able to handle; notably diaper malfunctions, humiliation at the hands of toddlers, and the so-much-fun-I-can’t-handle-it emerging needs of tweenagers.
While some are called to apologetics and sermonizing, I seem to have been assigned to reporting from the asylum- er- the Domestic Church.
There are exceptions, to be sure. From time to time I find myself gently nudged, then increasingly pushed to a Catholic-specific topic. And I fumble my way through it, feeling embarrassed and inadequate, hoping desperately that God really meant that thing He said about His grace making up for all my shortcomings.
So when I came downstairs this morning, in full seasonal-allergy glory, and picked up yesterday’s mail to look at through swollen eyes, I knew I was being called to write one of “those” articles today. For in that pile of mail was my yearly renewal for the Association of the Miraculous Medal.
Anyone who’s read my conversion story knows what a pivotal part Our Lady played in it (and those of you whose lives still have that gaping hole that can only be filled by reading the over-detailed account of my conversion can find it in its four part saga here, here, here and here), and how her Miraculous Medal was a tangible reflection of that intercession.
(just as an aside, I started this post three hours ago, got distracted, and just now remembered that I was writing it)
(and then I did it again. This 300 word blurb is now approaching the 5 hour mark to finish.)
Every September I receive my membership renewal to the Association. Every year I look forward to adding new names to the list. New babies, new godchildren, new holy souls in Purgatory. For a mere 25 cents per enrollee, each person on the list gets the benefits of a multitude of Masses said for them, Vincentian priests and brothers are financially aided in their work and formation, and devotion to the Miraculous Medal is spread.
If you aren’t already a member of the Association, I’d like you to check out their webpage, and prayerfully discern becoming one.