Dear Parishioners and Friends,
With the gift of fortitude (sometimes it is called courage)
we are able, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to overcome difficulties and
even endure trials and pains along the path of holiness with divine strength. The
gift of fortitude brings to those who have it a dauntless spirit of resolution,
a firmness of mind, and an indomitable will to persevere with a quiet faith in
God’s providence that overcomes all obstacles.
This gift works on us in two ways: it helps us resist evil
and pushes us onward to persevere in difficulties. The martyrs are excellent
examples of men and women of supernatural fortitude. They were faced with the
very loss of their lives but they preferred martyrdom rather than betray their
faith in Christ. It also brings courage to persist in the practice of
virtue despite trials, illness, persecution or external failure. A Catholic who
becomes fervent in God’s service will soon be condemned by the world, but the
gift of fortitude will sustain him as he walks toward the Cross.
The gift of fortitude enables us to live all the virtues to
a heroic degree. It also aids us in suffering with patience and joy and to
overcome any traces of lukewarmness in our faithfulness to God.
In Christ,
Msgr. Baker
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