Sister Miriam James Heidland captivated the audience at the 10th National Eucharistic Congress with a heartfelt and profound talk about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, emphasizing how He draws near to us and reveals Himself through word and sacrament. Her address was rooted in personal stories, biblical narratives, and deep spiritual insights, inviting listeners to encounter Christ in a transformative way.
Sister Miriam began by sharing her experience with Ignatian meditation during a retreat, where she placed herself in the scene of the apostles meeting the Risen Jesus. She humorously recounted her attempt to direct the scene, expecting expressions of guilt and remorse from the apostles. However, Jesus gently corrected her, emphasizing that He is not like that; He meets us where we are and leads us to conversion.
She then shared a story of a Broadway actor who struggled with understanding the cross. In a moment of exasperation, he asked God why Jesus had to die, to which he received the answer, “When you love someone, you prove it.” Sister Miriam elaborated that God’s love is proven in countless ways, including our very existence and uniqueness. She reflected on the intricate design of our fingerprints as a metaphor for God’s detailed love for each person’s heart and soul.
Drawing from the Gospel of Luke, Sister Miriam recounted the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. She vividly described how Jesus joined them on their journey, gradually revealing Himself through the scriptures and the breaking of the bread. This narrative illustrated how Jesus meets us in our struggles, doubts, and brokenness, transforming our hearts and lives.
She connected this to personal anecdotes, including a moving story of a woman who attended a day of recollection at a retreat center for those struggling with addictions. The woman’s journey from anger and resistance to peaceful companionship with Jesus demonstrated how Christ’s presence brings healing and transformation. Sister Miriam highlighted that Jesus is not deterred by our messiness and meets us with unwavering love.
Sister Miriam also shared her own struggles during her novice years, particularly an experience of feeling responsible for a young girl’s abortion after a failed attempt to counsel her. Overwhelmed with guilt, she sought comfort in prayer and received the unexpected advice to “get Him a pillow,” symbolizing her need to trust Jesus even in her distress. This experience deepened her trust in God’s presence and guidance, leading to a renewed sense of mission.
She concluded with a powerful story from her ministry, recounting the experience of a woman named Jennifer who feared confession after two abortions. Jennifer’s journey to reconciliation was marked by intense spiritual battles, but ultimately, she found peace and joy in God’s forgiveness. This story underscored the transformative power of encountering Jesus in the sacraments.
Sister Miriam emphasized that true love casts out fear and called the audience to examine where fear might be holding them back. She invited everyone to bring their struggles, doubts, and hopes to Jesus, trusting in His mercy and grace. She prayed for the Holy Spirit to ignite a flame of faith, hope, and love in each person’s heart, encouraging them to become saints, prophets, and martyrs for today’s world.
Her talk ended with a heartfelt prayer, asking God to raise up individuals who can meet the needs of the present day with bold faith and love. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, moved by Sister Miriam’s profound insights and passionate call to deeper discipleship.
