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A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 5 – Nurturing Soul

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross uses vivid imagery to describe the ideal qualities of a woman’s soul. She emphasizes openness, nurturing warmth, clarity, and self-discipline as essential characteristics that enable women to care for others while maintaining their own integrity and strength. This vision encourages women to develop these traits actively. Edith Stein often wrote about the importance of balancing contemplation and action, advocating for a deeply integrated spiritual life.

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

In what ways can you cultivate a soul that is open, nurturing, and self-disciplined, ready to serve others?”
Develop a deep prayer life and regular participation in the sacraments, which nourish the soul. Engage in acts of service and charity, reflecting God’s love to others, and practice virtues like patience, humility, and kindness to strengthen your spiritual life.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,

you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ

even to the point of giving her life for it.

By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you

and to seek you with all our hearts,

for you alone are the source of life.

Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

*Citation: Edith Stein, Essays on Woman. Translated by Freda Mary Oben, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 2 (ICS Publications, 1996), p. 132.