Thanks for this reminder of Mother Nati. We met her during our visit a few years ago, and she is quite an inspiration. I tell people about her whenever I talk about our visit to Renosa with Fr. Antonio, and I’m inspired by the lengths she’s gone to in order to save some in her care.

I’m glad to know you are there with our kids this year. May it please God for us to see you again soon.

The Rovny’s…

Your story and words about authority remind me of the story in the book of Acts where some sons of a Jewish chief of priests took it upon themselves to attempt exorcisms in the name of “Jesus, whom Paul preacheth” (Acts 19:13). The evil spirit answered them with “Jesus, I know and Paul, I know—but who are you?” and the spirit leaped on them, overcame them and they ended up fleeing wounded and naked.

The same thing can happen to us (although usually in less dramatic ways than demon possession). Simply wearing or using the name of Jesus or one of His saints is not sufficient protection from evil. Our authority over the evil in our lives comes from faith in the power and authority of Jesus Christ and in the power and authority He has given to the saints—not from some ‘magic’ power that comes from saying their names.

Our faith is increased as we grow more and more obedient to His will and are cleansed of our sins. Increased faith leads to increased authority over evil. However, while my faith is still small and weak, if I recognize and confess this, then I can call upon the help of those whose faith is strong–the blessed Theotokos and the rest of the saints. It is the recognition and confession of our sinfulness and lack of faith that enables us to draw upon the authority of Christ and His saints and face evil without fear.