When the Soul Flowers

By Sister Susan Chase and Nic Herrmann

As we emerge from winter’s drab bite, the arrival of spring reflects a spiritual transition in which what truly flowers within us is deep commitment, signaling a movement away from temporal pleasures and ego-driven desires toward a dedicated use of our time and talent in serving God and God’s people. In this renewed season of life, our experience of spring deepens as we recognize its beauty and its brevity, shifting our focus from outward achievement to inner depth. As Richard Rohr notes, “The first half of life is discovering the script, and the second half is writing it and actually living it,” a transition that moves us away from accumulating and toward a realization of our own mortality. This spiritual maturation echoes Saint Augustine’s truth that our hearts remain restless until they rest in God, finding that no earthly production can fully satisfy our deepest longings. Ultimately, the glory of springtime serves as a signpost for the Risen Christ, whose resurrection transforms this fleeting season into a definitive promise of eternal renewal. Every budding branch and blossoming flower serves as a living reminder of life and rebirth, a rebirth not for our own sake, but one marked by the humble act of giving all glory to God as we are made new in God’s image.

Consider joining us at Marilac Center for one of the following events:

The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
4:00 p.m. to Sunday, May 31, 2026, noon
This event takes place in Ross Chapel
Fr. Frank Reale, SJ

In a preached format, Fr. Frank Reale will direct us in The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The movements include the four weeks highlighting major themes like the Principal and Foundation to the Contemplation to Attaining the Love of God. The movements include the four weeks, highlighting major themes like the Principal and Foundation, to the Contemplation to Attaining the Love of God.

Registration for Spring Retreat: The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius

May 26-31, 2026

Beloved Discipleship: Johannine Gospel
Monday, October 12 (4 p.m.) – Sunday, October 18 (4 p.m. – Mass)
This event is held in Ross Chapel
Sr. Mary McGlone, CSJ

The Beloved Discipleship Retreat will examine the Gospel of John as the way of entering into the call we each have to become the beloved disciples of Jesus in today’s world. The rhythm of prayer will include times for silence, personal prayer, and individual accompaniment if requested.

Registration for Beloved Discipleship: Johannine Gospel

October 12-18, 2026

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When the Soul Flowers

May 15, 2026

In this renewed season of life, our experience of spring deepens as we recognize its beauty and its brevity, shifting...