Month of the Holy Souls
Halloween ushered in the Triduum of the Dead, reminding us that, one day, we will die. On November 1, Catholics celebrated the saints in Heaven and on November 2, we prayed for those souls in Purgatory who are still on the road. They are saints-in-the-making, just as we are. Or, we should be, anyway. Now is a good time to consider where you are in your journey, if you’ve strayed from the path, and how to get back on course, if need be.
Full disclosure: I’m actually writing this on October 30 in a rambling retreat house by a large pond that almost qualifies as a lake. This morning, mist covered the world. The dew was so heavy, it dripped from the eaves to splatter onto the brick steps. Everything is shades of gold, brown, and green. Hopefully, I’ll get to take part in a procession to a cemetery on All Souls.
This is meant to be a writing retreat, so I intend to spend most of my time either reading, writing, or wandering the walking trails. I should be back late Sunday, November 5, so you’ll still be getting this month’s story! Speaking of which….
This Month’s Story
Title: “The Chalice”
Date of Publication: Friday, November 10, 2023
Bertram is returning from serving in his lord’s military when he meets a leper on the road. This chance encounter opens the way to a deeper mystery, one that involves the Holy Grail.
On the Bedside Table
Spiritual Reading: How to Read (and Write) like a Catholic by Joseph Hren (NB: Hren is the founder of Wiseblood Books.)
Novel: The Lost Metal by Brandon Sanderson (It’s a tome and I’ve been busy.)
Feedback Requested
These State of the Library posts are meant to give you a glimpse into my life and what the next story will be. But what else would you like to see in these posts? Comment below what you think should be included in the State of the Library!
I’d love to see an excerpt from the monthly story included in the future if you’ve got any section polished up!