Kathy Coffey is the author of 13 award-winning books and many articles in Catholic periodicals. She gives retreats and workshops nationally and internationally. For more information, see her website www.kathycoffey.wordpress.com.
Our friend Edward Hays describes saints as zealous individuals who are preoccupied with experiencing God. In A Passion for Life Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister profiles 30 individuals from all eras and many religious traditions who are "icons of the human face of God." Saints compel us to reimagine the human task in light of spiritual conviction. These fearless men and women offer us new models for holiness, humility, service and justice.
In this compact and creative series of meditations on 14 saints and a batch of "Glorious Nobodies," Coffey illuminates their lives and legacies.
Make no mistake about it, the saints that the author has chosen to write about are courageous and adventuresome souls. What fuels their passion and faith? Philosopher and spiritual seeker Paul Brunton in Meditations for People in Crisis, edited by Sam and Leslie Cohen, has the answer:
"There is a power which inspires the heart, enlightens the mind, and sanctifies human character. It is the power of Grace."
Our favorites among this noble band of explorers of faith are Elizabeth Ann Seton who called herself the "old Lady"; Rachel Carson, whose abiding faith in wonder was reflected in her reverence for nature; Dorothy Day, whose passion for justice and service of the poor remain a standard for all spiritual people; Dorothy Stang, whose ministry to the poor in the jungles of Brazil stirs our souls; and Mychal Judge, whose death was in sync with his ability to put others ahead of himself. Each one of these saints demonstrated what can be done by those who give in to the power of grace.
"Grace happens when we act with others on behalf of our world."
— Joanna Macy in Lighting a Candle by Molly Young Brown
