“’Tis the Season”: Finding Comfort, Hope, and Peace Through the Words of Mother Catherine McAuley

By Sister Larretta Rivera-Williams

As early as October, Hallmark and department stores unveil Christmas décor and gift ideas. For many, this sparks joy and anticipation. But for the sentimental heart—and especially for anyone who has lost a loved one during this holy season—the early arrival of Christmas can feel emotionally draining.

I often wonder what Catherine McAuley would say about the serious and dehumanizing issues we face today, particularly immigration and racism. Yet amid these concerns, I continue to find profound comfort in her words about death.

I wrap myself in the warmth of Catherine’s reflections on the passage from this life to the next. She seemed to face death without fear. Her Suscipe is filled with unwavering commitment, trust, faith and hope.

How heavy her heart must have been as she sent sisters out to form new foundations, knowing she would not see them again. And yet, she entrusted them—and herself—to the infinite power of God, confident that God would draw every soul into eternity.

“My God, I am yours for time and eternity.”

I have spoken the words of the Suscipe countless times, often without fully hearing the depth of what I was professing. I am God’s as I breathe—but what have I truly considered about eternity?

As I grow older, I realize I now know more people in eternity than I do on this side of life. Family members, friends, mentors—even people I remember from as early childhood—have gone before me.

This season is difficult not only for me but for countless others. We rejoice in the birth of Jesus each year, yet memories of “how things used to be” rise within us and stir the tender ache of grief.

I remember those who shaped me: my parents, my stepfather, my maternal grandparents, my cousins and my dear friends. People who influenced my convictions, integrity and understanding of Mercy. Their absence becomes a poignant backdrop during a season filled with greetings, gifts and colorful memories.

So, I swallow Catherine’s words and let them seep into the corners of my mind, bringing comfort to my soul:

“My God, I am yours for time and eternity.”

The Suscipe is rich in meaning. It is a profession of faith, a declaration of love and a steadfast commitment to the God who holds us. It assures us that life with God is both now and eternal.

“We shall all meet in heaven—what a joy to even think of it!”

Like the Prayer of St. Francis or the Our Father, the Suscipe is a blueprint for life. A prayer that strengthens us, encourages us, and teaches us how to live with hope for what is yet to come.

With this grounding in God and in Mercy, I can hold close those who now live in eternity while cherishing those who walk alongside me today.

“Each day is a step we take towards eternity, and we shall continue to step from day to day until we take the last step which will bring us into the Presence of God. Let us always walk before God in anticipation of that day.”

Catherine McAuley

May the season’s greetings and decorations become blessings of peace for all who need comfort, hope, and healing.