Aleteia, which means Truth Revealed, September 28, has an article by Sarah Robsdottir, titled "Martyr-nuns' last prayer before being killed," which means "The Last Prayer of Women." martyrdom before being killed".
Their prayer is still applicable today.
In early March 2016, a terrorist attack occurred at a monastery and nursing home in Yemen that killed 16 people. Four of the victims were Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity, a religious order founded by Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
I found a handwritten prayer card from the nuns this morning in memory of this tragedy. It stuck in my diary, and I quickly stuck it on the fridge, because the hardships at home and the news headlines had upset me to the point of distraction.
I prayed after Mass and before breakfast, which is our custom and the habit of the murdered nuns – so we know, based on the time of day the sisters were murdered. , then it was time for you to say your last prayer. I'm looking for simple words and goal-oriented; A good way to stay focused.
The handwritten prayer of one of the slain nuns reads as follows:
"Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve You who are to be blessed; teach me to give and not to measure, teach me to fight and not to care about wounds, teach me I work hard and do not seek rest, teach me to work and ask for no reward."
I was given this prayer card by Sister Maria, a Missionary of Charity, who, along with several other nuns active in my parish, was given this prayer card at the time.
The nun handed me a copy of the prayer with a serene look on her face as I expressed my sadness over what had happened in Yemen, my homeland.
I remember I found Sister Maria's peace and joy in my mind: "Don't shed any tears," her smile was serene, "they are getting their reward!"
The nun then quickly turned the conversation to me - patting me on the arm, telling me I looked "too thin" and asking with great concern if I was taking care of myself. .
She then asked about my sister so that I could tell that she had memorized my prayer a few weeks ago; she even remembers Jenny's medical diagnosis and her middle name!
In short, Sister Maria not only gave me the prayer of these martyred nuns, but she embodied that prayer.
Martyrs of Yemen, pray for us!
Sarah Robsdottir