Written By: Amy Reinhardt
”It is in loving the cross that one discovers his heart, for divine love does not exist without suffering.” These words, spoken by St. Bernadette Soubirous, resonate with me in a real way.
In the time I’ve carried the cross of chronic kidney disease, I’ve learned the true meaning of suffering. I’ve learned how to suffer well by turning toward the Lord. He has fueled my heart with joy and hope. He’s given me an incredible testimony that I can share with others.
When she was young, St. Bernadette experienced Marian apparitions. She chose to believe it was the Immaculate Conception. She faced hardship when not everyone believed her. Per Mary’s instructions, a chapel was built – The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. There’s a spring of healing waters that’s cured many. The life of St. Bernadette is nothing short of divine.
Many visited the relic of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes when it came to St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood, KS. I venerated the first-class relic twice. I knelt before her and prayed. I asked for her graces on my own journey and for those I know with heavy crosses to bear. I made third-class relics by touching my rosaries and miraculous medals to the glass case.
As a review, first class are parts of a saint’s body (bone, hair, skin, etc.). Second class are objects owned by the saint or even instruments used to martyr them. And finally, third class is anything touched to a first or second class relic. St. Bernadette’s relic was a piece of her rib.
On Friday afternoon, the deacon performed the Water Gesture. He sprinkled healing waters from Lourdes on all of us. It was refreshingly joyous. My heart was healed and my soul renewed. I’m blessed that St. Bernadette came to me. I believe her to be a powerful intercessor.
Maybe after I recover from my transplant, I’ll plan a trip to Lourdes, France. I would love to pray at the same Massabielle grotto where a 14-year-old girl witnessed the Virgin Mary. The same girl who defended these visions with genuine humility. She is a true disciple.
“Watch over me Father, so that everything I do may be with the intention of pleasing Jesus.”
Saint Bernadette Soubirous, pray for us!
At 28 years old, Amy Reinhardt has been an Ascension parishioner for over half her life. She led Disciples Dwelling and was heavily involved in the young adult ministry up until getting diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. She strives to radiate Christ’s light and love to all who are blessed to know her. If you’d like to read Amy’s health updates: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/amyreinhardt.