Of Saints And Angels, St. Francis Xavier, Missoula, Montana

A couple quotes, from favourite authors, to accompany the last in my unintentional St. Francis Xavier series:

“If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give.” -
George MacDonald

“Believers, look up - take courage. The angels are nearer than you think.” - Billy Graham

Sacred Illumination, Missoula, Montana

Okay, I was momentarily tempted to title this post “Stairway to Heaven” - but thankfully, my filter kicked in and insisted, "Ahem!...that might be a bit much.".

Stained glass windows are a multifaceted marvel - the history of telling story in picture, the intricate piecework, the survival through generations, the mesmerizing factor that saves struggling children from perceived monotony. Forget zen - contemplation of these beauties always induces calm for me. 

A big thanks to St. Francis Xavier for maintaining these circa-1903 works of art.

ASpire, St. Francis Xavier, Missoula, Montana

Passing the corner of Orange and Pine, I squinted to read, “Pray for peace, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.“, hand-lettered in Sharpie on paper taped to a small sandwich-board sign. Well, there’s a call to time well spent. And with parking in the shade, how could I not spontaneously offer even ten minutes of a Saturday afternoon toward such a worthwhile endeavor? I‘m sure my fumbling try at respectful genuflection was graciously ignored by the angels and saints gracing St. Francis Xavier.