Perhaps you have been there. In 1623, Louise de Marillac (Mademoiselle LeGras) was in a state of inner turmoil. She deeply desired to serve God and her neighbor more fully, but could not see clearly where God was leading her.

As she prayed during Mass on Pentecost, she received a great grace – she called it her “lumière” or light – that freed her from all doubt. She understood that she was to remain with her ailing husband until another way would open for her, all in God’s own time. From then on, Louise regarded the period between Ascension and Pentecost as a time of special grace. She encouraged her Sisters to make a retreat during this time of waiting and praying for the Holy Spirit to come in fullness. To this day this is a special time for them.

From its archives VinFormation offers a presentation based on quotes from St. Louise for each of the eleven days between Ascension and Pentecost. May her words stir up the desires of our hearts to be open to the Spirit’s consoling and compelling grace. Come, Holy Spirit!