Women's Words Ep3/Therese

This is part of an extended series, Women's Words which tells personal stories of Catholic women from all walks of life. We invite you to hear their stories and to allow Him to speak to you through the tapestry of their lives.

Episode 3: The sublime strength of confession and prayer

Life can be overwhelming and stressful. Originating from a conservative Catholic family and being raised as a cradle Catholic, religion was never questioned. By the time I turned 13, I started to see Sunday masses and Novena Devotions as a weekend obligation.

At the age of 18, I left for overseas to pursue my degree. The first two years were challenging. I was in the middle of an eating disorder. I felt lonely and lost. I experienced times where I would be surrounded by friends but still felt lonely. It was the first time I started questioning the existence of God. There were times where I faced obstacles at university and got carried away with worrying too much about the future. And still, I did not know where to go because I did not feel grounded in faith. I had not gone for Sunday masses in a while. While I did excel at university, I felt a sense of chaos. I knew I lacked peace; not the sit by the lake and watch the sunset type of peace, I meant, a non-humanistic Divine peace.

It was a Wednesday afternoon. Classes were over for the day. I desired to visit the Catholic church near the apartment I resided in to spend some time in reflection and quietness. I needed a sense of clarity. As I entered the church doubting if I even belonged, I saw a green light glimmering outside the confessional. An unidentifiable voice was calling me to the confessional. It had been a long time since I went for one. I was hesitant at first but then decided to make my way. I did not know what I was going to say. I let my heart out. I poured my doubts and everything that bothered me. At one time, it felt more like a counselling session rather than a confession, but it was extremely therapeutic.

It was the BEST confession I had ever made. It was heartfelt and emotional. The priest gave a prayer card with the “Memorare” prayer and even taught me how to pray using the ‘Prayer Hand’! That evening when I returned home, life was the same- my problems were still there and I still worried. BUT I felt peace, in control of my emotions and most importantly, genuinely happy after such a long time. I felt like God truly loved me. I said my night prayer for the first time in so many years. It was also the day I realised the importance of Confession. It made me humble and identify my own human weaknesses. Confession created a personal connection between me and God. With that, it offered a prayer life I never thought I would have ever been able to attain.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.

As days went by, my prayer life became stronger. I started journaling occasions that begged to be remembered- good and bad and I offered up those in prayer. I became more reliant on God’s mercy. As a 24-year-old now, though I experience ups and downs (because Life is not perfect), I can well and truly say that prayer is a journey not a destination. The good days offer a sense of hope while the bad ones are integral to understanding the nature of Jesus and the powerful intercession of Mother Mary.

As a woman herself, she went through her own journey of uncertainty, fear and hopelessness- something we have all experienced too. Saying the “Memorare” has always kept me sane and in peace. I remember times where I say it randomly in my heart through the day. The words are comforting and living overseas without my parents, I know that my heavenly mother has been guiding and protecting me and I am sure she understands you too and is guiding you in your life and endeavours.

Therese is a 23-year-old postgraduate student. At the age of 18, she left for Melbourne to

pursue university education. She is a nature, tennis and motorsports enthusiast. She enjoys

spending time with her loved ones, cooking and baking, discovering new places and

travelling abroad with her family. She lends her beautiful singing voice as a cantor at a local parish and enjoys supporting and volunteering at charitable organisations , with a special emphasis on children and early childhood intervention.