Romana

On October 2, in connection with the Year of Faith, a conference was held at Austral University in Argentina on “the footsteps of the saints.” University president Dr. Marcelo Villar introduced the conference by recalling that St. Josemaría Escrivá had spread the teaching of the universal call to holiness. Two Missionary Sisters of Charity spoke about Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who used to say: “Holiness is not a luxury but an obligation.” They explained that we are all called to let Christ act through us, and gave as an example Mother Teresa’s loving dedication to the poorest of the poor, thus helping people to discover the love that God has for us.

Fernán de Elizalde, vice-postulator of the cause of beatification of the Servant of God Enrique Shaw (1921-1962), showed how a businessman and navy officer could be a saint. He emphasized that, without neglecting his family (Enrique married Cecilia Bunge and had nine children), nor the success of his business, the Servant of God had a deep concern for his workers and led a life centered on Christ.

Finally, Dr. Roberto Dotta spoke about Venerable Álvaro del Portillo, stressing how the life of Don Álvaro (the third of eight children in a deeply Christian family) was changed when he met St. Josemaría. Soon after meeting him he attended a day of recollection preached by the founder of Opus Dei, on July 7, 1935. Afterwards Don Álvaro remarked: “he gave a meditation on love for God and for our Lady, and I was completely overwhelmed.” That same day he decided to join the Work, the beginning of a generous self-giving and faithful commitment that lasted until his death. He also emphasized the optimism of Bishop del Portillo in the face of difficulties, who always saw the fatherly and loving hand of God behind all circumstances.