October 2020
Dear Friends,

             The Christophers’ prayers remain with all those still suffering from the devastating effects of the

Coronavirus pandemic. We pray for those who are ill to have speedy recoveries, for treatment to both

improve and save lives, and for everyone suffering from economic hardship to have their needs met.

Above all, we pray for our nation to return to a time of peace and prosperity.

             October is a month of powerful saints whom we can turn to for intercession in times of trouble.

October 1st is the Feast Day of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, whose simple way of devotion has led

countless souls to draw closer to Christ. Saint Thérèse once said, “I prefer the monotony of obscure

sacrifice to all ecstasies. To pick up a pin for love can convert a soul.”

             October 7th is the Feast of the Most Holy Rosary, and we offer the Rosary as the most powerful

prayer of our time, especially praying for Mary’s intercession on behalf of families in crisis, as well as young people struggling with the difficult issues they face during these trying times.

             Finally, October 22nd is the Feast Day of Saint Pope John Paul II, who once said, “I plead with you – never, ever give up on hope, never doubt, never tire, and never become discouraged. Be not afraid.” May that spirit of hope continue to inspire and sustain us during this time to remain strong for each other, in whatever challenges we may face.

             We are especially grateful for all the letters we have received over the past few months, which remind us of the profound impact our mission has on people’s lives. One such letter read as follows: “I just wanted to reach out and to say thank you for your lovely News Notes. I am a patient, currently, and also a mother and wife. My hospitalization for the last year, and my journey has been very difficult. I was ready today to give up hope in God, as my situation has been extraordinarily complex, not to mention spiritually confusing. However, this afternoon, I reached into an envelope of materials from a chaplain, and pulled out your Christopher News Notes on ‘Holding On to Hope’ and ‘Facing Depression’…. The mere fact that these papers exist, along with your motto, ‘It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness,’ has given me the impetus to hold on to hope.”

             Thanks to our donors for helping us, as we continue to share Father Keller’s message in this 75th anniversary year of our organization. May we all join our efforts in lighting candles in the darkness, and may we especially pray during this time for our religious missionaries who are making such a positive difference in the world today. May God guide and protect them all, and grant them continued strength and courage to bring the love of Christ to those in need.

God Bless! 

Mary Ellen Robinson

President