Being In - But Not Of
- innerweavings
- Nov 6, 2019
- 2 min read
“I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them …" John 17:15-18
Today we will examine the life of a woman who serves as a role model for how to be IN the world while living a life distinctly not OF the world.
November 6th is the day we commemorate and honor Blessed Josefa Naval Girbes, a member of the Third Order Secular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Teresa of Jesus. Josefa was a model of Christian charity and chastity. She was born in Province, Spain, on December 11, 1820, baptized at birth and she confirmed in 1828.
Her mother died when she was only thirteen. As the eldest of five children, she helped her father with the raising and care of her siblings.
At eighteen years of age, under the spiritual direction of her parish priest, she chose Jesus as her only spouse and became a nun. She demonstrated that virginity is a true sign of love and a very special source of spiritual fruitfulness in the world. She became a member of the Third Order of Carmelite nuns. But rather than a cloistered life, Josepha chose to remain in the secular world where she could focus her time and energy in devotion to others - especially on the education of the young women of her community. While teaching embroidery and other home making skills, Josepha was able to share the Scripture and provide spiritual instruction. Her home became a free school attended by young women from all walks of life.
Her contribution mattered as it helped to shape good Christian mothers and helped promote vocations to the religious life. She was greatly admired for her piety and charity. Even after her death, on February 24, 1893, (at the age of 73) her reputation spread due to her life of holiness and numerous works of charity and particularly for her care of the sick, particularly the numerous cholera victims she cared for with great devotion.
On January 3, 1987, Pope John Paul II approved the decree on the heroic virtues of Josefa Naval Girbes. On September 1, 1988 the proposed miracle for her Beatification was accepted. The Beatification ceremony was celebrated in Saint Peter’s Basilica on September 25, 1988.
Shine her light of Christian charity and chastity today!
For information on Blessed Josepha Naval Girbes:
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