October is a beautiful month in the life of the Church. It is the Month of the Holy Rosary, an invitation to draw closer to Jesus through the guidance of His Mother, Mary. Through the Rosary, the faithful are not simply reciting prayers; they are meditating on the very life, death, and resurrection of Christ, walking beside Mary as she walked beside her Son.

October 11th is the Solemnity of our foundress Saint María Soledad Torres Acosta, patroness of the sick and nurses. She dedicated her life to serving the sick, poor, and suffering with humility, prayer, and unwavering trust in God, inspiring others through her compassionate care and deep devotion to Christ present in those who suffer.

Also, we celebrate the Memorial of our Sister Blessed Mary Catherine Irigoyen whose Memorial falls on October 10th.  She followed in Mother Soledad’s  footsteps, giving her life caring for the sick as Christ Himself.

This year, Pope Leo XIV's prayer intention for October calls the Church to pray for the establishment of mental health ministries throughout the world, that communities may become places of welcome, understanding, and accompaniment for those who struggle with mental illness, helping to overcome stigma and discrimination.

As we continue to journey through October, may we place our joys, worries, and intentions into Mary's hands. It is Mary who teaches us how to bear our own crosses as well as how to stand beside those who suffer. May Saint Maria Soledad and Blessed Mary Catherine intercede for us, helping us become instruments of God's mercy to all.

- Sister Elizabeth