Saint Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, was a Spanish Catholic priest who dedicated his life to spreading the message of God’s love and the importance of work and daily life as a path to holiness. His teachings continue to inspire millions of people around the world, reminding them of the divine presence in every aspect of their lives.
Escriva’s words are a source of wisdom and guidance, offering insight into how to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. His quotes touch on various aspects of faith, personal development, and the pursuit of holiness, serving as a constant reminder to live with love, humility, and selflessness.
One of Escriva’s notable quotes is, “Do everything for love. Thus there will be no little things: everything will be big. Perseverance in little things for love is heroism.” These words remind us that even the smallest acts of kindness and love can have a significant impact on others and contribute to our own growth as individuals.
In another quote, Escriva states, “It is in the existence of each of us that God is interested. A mother loves each of her children wholeheartedly … It is God himself, our Father, who placed in the depths of the souls of each person the desire to be loved.” This quote emphasizes the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, reminding us that we are all cherished and loved by God, irrespective of our flaws or achievements.
Escriva’s teachings encourage us to embrace the challenges and joys of everyday life with faith and gratitude. He reminds us, “Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle.” This quote encourages us to turn to Mary, the mother of Jesus, for intercession and guidance in our journey to holiness.
These quotes are just a glimpse of the profound wisdom and inspiration found in the teachings of Saint Josemaria Escriva. His words continue to resonate with people of all walks of life, guiding them towards a deeper relationship with God and a more meaningful existence.
Saint Josemaria Escriva Quotes
Saint Josemaria Escriva was a Spanish Catholic priest and the founder of Opus Dei, a Catholic lay organization. He was known for his profound insights and inspirational teachings, which continue to inspire millions of people around the world. Here are some quotes from Saint Josemaria Escriva:
- “Do everything for Love. Thus there will be no little things: everything will be big. Perseverance in little things for Love is heroism.”
- “Don’t let your life be barren. Be useful. Make yourself felt. Shine forth with the torch of your faith and your love.”
- “The true way to advance in holy virtues is to persevere in them, not to abandon them in the face of difficulties.”
- “Don’t let your defects and imperfections discourage you. Very few are saints at the time of their death; the greater part become so later on, with God’s grace.”
- “God is calling you to serve Him in and from the ordinary…There is something holy hidden in the most ordinary situations, and it is up to each of you to discover it.”
- “We have to be contemplatives: people who, in the midst of noise, silence our souls in God. We have to be apostles: people who go out with the desire to share the happiness we have found in God.”
- “Don’t count the days; make the days count. Time is not to be wasted, but to be filled with meaningful actions that bring us closer to God.”
These quotes reflect Saint Josemaria Escriva’s deep spirituality and encouragement to live a life of love, service, and perseverance. They remind us of the importance of finding God’s presence in the ordinary and making every day count in our journey towards holiness.
Inspiring Words from the Founder of Opus Dei
Saint Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, left behind a collection of inspiring words that continue to resonate with people from all walks of life. His teachings offer guidance and motivation for those seeking to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
One of his most famous quotes is, “Do small things with great love.” This simple yet powerful message reminds us that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference when done with love and dedication. It is a call to find joy in ordinary tasks and to approach them with a spirit of generosity and kindness.
Saint Josemaria Escriva also emphasized the importance of work as a means of sanctification. He believed that work, when done with a spirit of service and excellence, can be a path to holiness. In his words, “To work well is to pray well.” This quote inspires us to see our daily tasks as opportunities to grow personally and spiritually.
Another significant theme in his teachings is the universal call to holiness. Saint Josemaria Escriva believed that everyone, regardless of their occupation or social status, is called to seek holiness in their everyday lives. He encouraged people to find God in the ordinary and to live their faith authentically in all aspects of their lives.
Furthermore, Saint Josemaria Escriva emphasized the importance of fostering a personal relationship with God through prayer. He believed that prayer is the foundation of a vibrant and meaningful spiritual life. In his words, “It is necessary to speak to God, to talk with Him, and to listen to Him. Without this conversation with God, we will find ourselves lost and without direction.”
The inspiring words of Saint Josemaria Escriva continue to touch the hearts and minds of people around the world. They serve as a reminder to seek God in all things, to embrace the dignity of work, and to live with love and purpose. Whether one is a member of Opus Dei or not, these words offer timeless wisdom for anyone on the journey towards holiness and fulfillment.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute religious advice. Please consult with a spiritual advisor or clergy member for specific guidance on matters of faith.
Life and Legacy
Saint Josemaria Escriva was born on January 9, 1902, in Barbastro, Spain. Despite facing many challenges in his early life, including the loss of his father at a young age, he persevered and dedicated his life to serving God.
He founded Opus Dei, a Catholic organization aimed at helping people find holiness in their everyday lives. This message of finding spiritual fulfillment in ordinary tasks resonated with many, and Opus Dei grew rapidly under his leadership.
Saint Josemaria Escriva believed that everyone has the potential to become a saint, regardless of their profession or station in life. He emphasized the importance of work as a means of sanctification and encouraged people to strive for excellence in their chosen fields.
His teachings on the sanctity of work and the need for ordinary people to cultivate a deep relationship with God continue to inspire millions worldwide. Today, Opus Dei has a presence in over 90 countries and continues to carry on Saint Josemaria Escriva’s mission of promoting holiness in daily life.
Saint Josemaria Escriva’s writings, including his most famous book “The Way,” provide spiritual guidance and encouragement for people of all walks of life. His words remind us of the power of small acts of love and the transformative potential of living out our faith in the midst of our daily activities.
Even after his death on June 26, 1975, Saint Josemaria Escriva’s legacy lives on. He was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2002, recognizing his profound impact and spiritual teachings. Today, he is remembered as a saint, a beloved spiritual leader, and a model of holiness for people around the world.
May we all be inspired by Saint Josemaria Escriva’s example and strive to find holiness in our own lives, following his teachings and living out our faith with love and dedication.
All about Saint Josemaria Escriva
Saint Josemaria Escriva was a Spanish Roman Catholic priest and the founder of Opus Dei, a Catholic organization dedicated to promoting the universal call to holiness and encouraging ordinary people to seek holiness in their everyday lives.
Saint Josemaria was born in Barbastro, Spain, on January 9, 1902, and grew up in a devout Catholic family. He was ordained a priest in 1925 and dedicated his life to spreading the message of God’s love and the importance of work as a means to sanctification.
Opus Dei, which means “Work of God” in Latin, was founded by Saint Josemaria in 1928. It is a personal prelature of the Catholic Church, recognized for its emphasis on spiritual growth through work, family life, and daily activities. Opus Dei seeks to help individuals integrate their faith into all aspects of their lives, believing that everyone has the potential to become a saint.
Saint Josemaria’s teachings and writings have had a profound impact on millions of people around the world. His most famous work, “The Way,” is a collection of spiritual reflections and advice on living a holy life. It has been translated into numerous languages and continues to inspire and guide individuals in their spiritual journey.
Saint Josemaria was known for his humility, simplicity, and deep love for God and others. He believed that everyone could find God in their daily lives and that even the smallest actions could be turned into acts of love and service to God.
Saint Josemaria Escriva was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II on October 6, 2002. His feast day is celebrated on June 26th, the day of his death in 1975. Today, his message of finding holiness in everyday life continues to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds.
| Birth | January 9, 1902 |
|---|---|
| Ordination as Priest | 1925 |
| Founding of Opus Dei | 1928 |
| Canonization as Saint | October 6, 2002 |
| Feast Day | June 26 |
Inspirational Quotes
Here are some inspirational quotes from Saint Josemaria Escriva:
- “Do not wait until you are old to be a saint. Start now!”
- “Do you want to be a saint? Carry out the little duty of each moment, doing it for love.”
- “The way to love God is to love people. The way to serve God is to serve people.”
- “Don’t let your past mistakes define your future. Start fresh every day.
- “You are capable of doing great things, don’t underestimate yourself. Trust in God’s grace.”
- “Prayer is the oxygen of the soul. Stay connected to God through constant prayer.”
- “Don’t be afraid of suffering. Embrace it as a way to grow in virtue and draw closer to God.”
- “Don’t be discouraged by failure. Learn from it, get up, and keep moving forward.”
- “Holiness is not just for priests and nuns. Every Christian is called to be holy in their everyday life.”
- “Remember that God is always with you, even in the midst of your struggles. Trust in His providence.”
These quotes from Saint Josemaria Escriva serve as a reminder to live a life of holiness, love, and constant growth in relationship with God. They encourage us to embrace our daily duties, trust in God’s grace, and strive for greatness in our own unique way. Let these words inspire and guide you on your spiritual journey.
Words that motivate and inspire
Saint Josemaria Escriva’s quotes are filled with wisdom and inspiration. Here are some of his empowering words that can motivate and inspire anyone:
- “Do not let your past dictate your future. Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference.”
- “The key to happiness is to find joy and fulfillment in the ordinary moments of life.”
- “You are capable of achieving greatness. Believe in yourself and work hard towards your goals.”
- “Do not be afraid of failure. It is through our failures that we learn and grow.”
- “Prayer is a powerful tool. It brings us closer to God and gives us strength and guidance.”
- “Always strive for excellence in everything you do. Mediocrity is not an option.”
- “True success is not measured by material possessions or achievements, but by the impact we have on others.”
- “Be kind and compassionate towards others. One small act of kindness can make a huge difference in someone’s life.”
- “Never give up on your dreams. With perseverance and determination, anything is possible.”
- “Love is the greatest force in the world. Spread love and kindness wherever you go.”
Faith and Devotion
In the teachings of Saint Josemaria Escriva, faith and devotion played a central role. He believed that faith was not just a set of beliefs or rituals, but a living relationship with God. He emphasized the importance of cultivating a deep and personal faith, rooted in prayer and the sacraments.
Saint Josemaria often spoke about the power of prayer and its ability to transform individuals and societies. He encouraged believers to dedicate time each day to prayer, saying, “To pray is to talk with God, but about what? About Him? No, it is to talk to God about yourself, to talk to Him of your concerns, your joys, your sufferings, to ask for His help, to tell Him what you think of Him, to thank Him for His favors, to apologize for your offenses to Him…”
He believed that devotion to the Eucharist was essential for strengthening one’s faith. He said, “When you approach Jesus in the Eucharist, think that He approaches you eagerly, because He longs to enter into each of you and to unite Himself intimately with you.” He encouraged frequent reception of the Eucharist as a way to nourish the soul and deepen one’s relationship with God.
In addition to prayer and the Eucharist, Saint Josemaria also stressed the importance of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He believed that Mary was a powerful intercessor and encouraged believers to entrust their intentions and needs to her. He said, “When Mary entrusts something to us, she descends to our level. It is then within our reach – provided that we approach her with the humility of children.”
Overall, Saint Josemaria Escriva’s teachings on faith and devotion remind us of the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with God through prayer, the sacraments, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He believed that these practices were essential for growing in holiness and deepening one’s faith.
How Saint Josemaria Escriva’s faith influenced his work
Saint Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, was deeply influenced by his faith in all aspects of his work. His strong belief in the power of prayer and the presence of God in every moment of life shaped his approach to his vocation and the teachings he shared with others.
Escriva believed that work was a way to sanctify oneself and bring one closer to God. He emphasized the importance of finding God in the midst of daily tasks and striving for excellence in all endeavors. For him, work was not just a means to an end but a way to fulfill one’s potential and serve others.
One of Escriva’s most famous quotes reflects his belief in the connection between faith and work: “Either we learn to find our Lord in ordinary, everyday life, or else we shall never find Him.” He encouraged individuals to embrace their work as a path to holiness and a means to spread God’s love to others.
Escriva’s faith also influenced his leadership style. He believed in empowering others and helping them discover their own vocation. He taught that everyone has a unique mission in life and that each person’s work, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, has great value in the eyes of God.
Throughout his life, Saint Josemaria Escriva strove to live out his faith and share it with others. He believed that faith should not be confined to the walls of a church but should permeate every aspect of life, including one’s work. His teachings continue to inspire people today to find God in their everyday tasks and live out their faith in all they do.
Work and Everyday Life
Saint Josemaria Escriva had a profound understanding of the importance and sanctity of work in our everyday lives. He believed that work was a way to fulfill our potential and to find God’s presence in the ordinary tasks of our day-to-day existence.
According to Escriva, work is not just a means to an end or a way to earn a living; it is a way to grow in virtue and bring holiness to the world. He encouraged individuals to approach their work with excellence and dedication, regardless of the nature of the task. Whether one is a teacher, a doctor, a housewife, or a student, each person has the opportunity to make their work a means of sanctification.
Escriva emphasized the need to see work as a service to others and a way to bring about positive change in the world. He believed that work can be a form of prayer, done with love and offered to God. By doing our work well and with a spirit of generosity, we can use our talents and abilities to serve others and make a difference.
For Escriva, work was not separate from our spiritual life; rather, it was intrinsically connected. He believed that work, when approached with the right attitude and intention, can lead us closer to God and help us grow in holiness. By seeking to do God’s will, even in the smallest tasks, we can find purpose and fulfillment in our work.
Ultimately, Escriva’s teachings remind us that our work is not separate from our vocation as Christians. Whether we are in an office, a factory, or at home, our everyday tasks have the potential to be a source of grace and a means of sanctification. By giving our best in our work and offering it to God, we can find joy and fulfillment in our daily lives.
Advice on finding meaning in ordinary tasks
Saint Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, believed that even the most mundane and ordinary tasks could be a means of sanctification and finding meaning in life. Here are some powerful quotes from Escriva that offer advice on finding meaning in ordinary tasks:
1. “Do everything for love.”
Escriva emphasized the importance of doing all tasks, no matter how small, with love. When we approach our daily tasks with love, we transform them into opportunities for growth and spiritual development.
2. “Turn your daily task into prayer.”
Escriva encouraged others to see their daily tasks as opportunities for prayer and contemplation. By offering our work to God and seeking His presence in every task, we can find deeper meaning and purpose in our lives.
3. “Find God in the small things.”
Escriva believed that God is present in every moment and every task of our lives, no matter how insignificant they may seem. By seeking God in the small things, we can discover His love and grace in every aspect of our existence.
4. “Do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
Escriva taught that true greatness lies in doing ordinary tasks with excellence. When we strive for excellence in even the simplest tasks, we bring glory to God and find fulfillment in our work.
5. “Offer your work as a sacrifice.”
Escriva encouraged others to view their work as a way to offer themselves to God, just as Jesus offered Himself on the cross. By offering our tasks and struggles as a sacrifice, we can unite ourselves with Christ and find meaning in our daily lives.
6. “See in your work a way to imitate Christ.”
Escriva believed that we can imitate Christ in the way we approach our daily tasks. By seeing our work as an opportunity to serve others and imitate Christ’s love and humility, we can find a deeper purpose and meaning in what we do.
7. “Be cheerful in your work.”
Escriva emphasized the importance of carrying out our tasks with joy and cheerfulness. By infusing our work with a positive attitude, we not only find meaning in what we do, but also inspire those around us with our optimism and happiness.
8. “Remember that your work has eternal value.”
Escriva reminded others that every task, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, has eternal value. By understanding that our work contributes to the building of God’s kingdom and the sanctification of our souls, we can find deep meaning and purpose in our daily tasks.
By following these pieces of advice from Saint Josemaria Escriva, we can discover the richness and meaning that lie within our ordinary tasks and infuse our lives with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.