Letter 169 – The Letters of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor delve into the life and spirituality of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. Dr. Lilles brings up her significance as a prophet for our times, offering a grounding in the Holy Trinity amid the frenzy of modern life. He explains how Elizabeth’s deep faith and prayer life provide a sense of heaven on earth, which resonates with many people today. They explore Elizabeth’s relationships, especially her correspondence with Father Les, an old family friend and priest. Recounting how Elizabeth confided her vocation to Father Les as a child and how he supported her throughout her religious journey, we see Elizabeth’s profound spiritual insights, even during her “dark night,” illustrate her unwavering faith and eventual spiritual renewal. Elizabeth’s letters, particularly one written in July 1903, reveal her spiritual depth and commitment. She writes about her intense desire to love God, seeing her profession as a dawn and her life as a bride of Christ as enveloped in peace and love. Her prayer life and silent communion with God allowed her to feel deeply connected to others, even when physically separated. The broader implications of Elizabeth’s spirituality, emphasizing the importance of silent prayer and the mystical union with Christ. This union transcends physical separation, offering a profound sense of communion with others through Christ. This deep prayer life is not just a private endeavor but integral to the mystical body of Christ, fostering connections that surpass physical proximity. Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions * Understanding St. Elizabeth of the Trinity What qualities of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity make her a special prophet for our time according to Dr. Anthony Lilles? * Spiritual Grounding  How does St. Elizabeth of the Trinity offer a sense of grounding through the Holy Trinity in today’s frenzied world? * Personal Relationships  In what ways did St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s letters reflect her deep love and spiritual connection with her friends and family? * Overcoming Darkness How did St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s experience of the dark night of the soul impact her spiritual journey and writings? * The Role of Silent Prayer  Why does Dr. Anthony Lilles emphasize silent prayer as essential for deepening our communion with Christ and others? * Mystical Body of Christ  How does the concept of the mystical body of Christ relate to our spiritual unity and personal relationships according to the discussion? * Sacraments and Communion What is the significance of the sacraments of initiation in fostering our union with Christ and each other? * Prayer and Mission  How does St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s understanding of her mission on earth relate to her identity and prayer life? * Embracing Suffering  What does St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s life teach us about embracing suffering and its role in our spiritual growth? * Surrender and Trust  How does St. Elizabeth of the Trinity exemplify joyful surrender to God’s will, and what can we learn from her example? Letter 169 L 169 To Canon Angles [ July 15, 1903] Dijon Carmel, J. M. + J. T. Monsieur le Chanoine, My dear Mama, whom I saw last week, brought me your good letter, and I assure you that I can indeed sympathize with the suffering your eyes are causing you, and I am praying fervently for you. I was wondering a little what had become of you, but you find your little Carmelite close to God, don’t you? And that is where she finds you too; then no more distance, no more separation,