During the trip back from Rome, where I had spent three years studying, my Abbot said he was concerned about my readjusting to community life. How would the return to a simpler life, devoid of the multiple activities of a student's life in Rome, affect me?
I listened attentively, but could not give an answer as I did not know what to say.
Back at the monastery, I was appointed cook and sent to the cheese factory.
One fine morning—I remember the day vividly—I was walking down the wide alley bordered with chestnut trees leading to the Lourdes Grotto, inside the park, when I suddenly felt the urge to pray the Rosary. The words flowed from within me, as if my lips couldn’t contain them. This continued happening for months. And everything went smoothly. Our Lady gave me a strength that I did not possess. And I can carry on or should I say she helps me carry on. Even today in my position, this is an extraordinary source of peace for me.
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Father Guillaume Marie, Abbot of the Abbey of Saint Mary of Mont des Cats, 59270 Godewaersvelde - France
Story shared in 2006.