Friday, March 25, 2011

WEBSTER'S ENTRY 7



The Marian Monk

Blessed Herman of Richenau was born in Switzerland to very loving, noble parents.  They were devout Catholics who wanted for their son to obey the will of God.  But because he was born disabled, his parents sent him to the Benedictine monastery at the age of 7.  When he was 20 years old, he became a monk. 

Herman had a great devotion to the Blessed Mother of God that he composed the Salve Regina, or the Hail Holy Queen which is now a very popular Marian prayer.  He wrote it to give honour to Our Lady. 

Despite being crippled, Herman was never in a bad mood.  Whenever he was struggling or suffering, he offered it as a sacrifice, one way he earned merits.  Whenever Blessed Herman was tempted, he sought recourse to Our Lady; so he kept strong against Satan.  He was obedient, prayerful and persevering.  And  because of this, God rewarded him with Heaven.

In spite of his struggles, Blessed Herman kept his eyes on his destination:  Heaven.  He is a good example of perseverance and Marian devotion to us who want to follow Christ.

(Creative Writing,
Grade 5,
Term 1, Week 7)