"Offering It Up"
The Spirituality of the Cross

The encyclical Salvific Doloris #20  states, "Those who participate in Christ's pain
through their own suffering have a special part in the infinite treasure of the world's
redemption and they can share this treasure with other's.  To the extent that man is
threatened by sin, so heavy is that sin which today's world has within itself.  Even
greater is the value of human suffering.  Thus, the Church must look to the fruit of
human suffering for the salvation of the world."
                                        Pope John Paul II
The Spirituality of
The Hermits of St. Giles

The encyclical, Christifiles Lasici #54 states, "One of the fundamental objectives of
this renewed and intensified pastoral action which cannot but involve all the
ecclesiastical community is to consider the ill, disabled person who suffers, not simply
as having a role of love and service in the Church, but as an active responsible
member in the evangelization and salvation of the world."
                                       Pope John Paul II

Reflections from bro. Mark

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus,  after 45 years of living with a chronic illness called Proteus Syndrome I
continue to scratch my head to the mystery of suffering.  I was diagnosed with having Proteus Syndrome. At least, this is what
my doctors believe I have.   I learned that there are a little more than 100 documented cases throughout the world so this is a
rare illness for sure. God only knows if Proteus Syndrome is what I really have, so I try to trust in my doctors but mostly in
God.  What I do is take each day that I have been given and offer it to God to the best of my abilities.  I have had the desire
for many years to dedicate my life to Christ Jesus as a monk.  I have been drawn to monastic spirituality since I was a young
boy.  I know it is not possible for me to consider entering a monastery these days because of my physical health and my
disability.  However, I continue desiring to serve God.  It is my hope that others who are chronically ill and disabled and have
the same desire to serve the Church through a monastic spirituality will consider the Hermits of St. Giles. I researched who
the patron Saint was for the disabled and chronically ill and came upon St. Giles of Nimes.  When I read his life story, (which
can be found in this website when you click on the picture of St. Giles) I was inspired with his life's story.  Thus, the name of
this association.  Under his protection and guidance I believe this association will be blessed.  
I was so happy to find the quotes at the top of this page written by our late great pope, John Paul II regarding the disabled and
chronically ill.  I knew my daily suffering and struggles had some purpose, some meaning.  I do my best to eradicate suffering
even in the midst of suffering.  I don't look for suffering.  My suffering is what I refer to as my cross.  I don't want to carry
my cross all the time.  There are times I need a break carrying it.  I get sick of being sick.  While attempting to live with
suffering and "offering it up" I often fail.  When I unite myself to Christ Jesus and His Cross I experience His graces pulling
me through. Well, there will be time for more speculation and seeking to understand the mystery of it all so I leave you with
this.  In the meantime, I pray God will bless this endeavor and bless all my sisters and brothers
who struggle daily with chronic illness and disability.

In Christ Jesus,
your brother Mark Andrew
email address: hermits@hermitsofstgiles.org