“Gratitude for suffering is a precious jewel for our heavenly crown… Man should always firmly believe that God sends just that trial which is most beneficial for him.”
In this episode, host Tom Shrewsbury explores the life and spiritual significance of Saint Gertrude the Great, a medieval nun renowned for her deep spiritual life and her visions of Christ. Tom begins by relating the concept of divine messengers and historical apparitions to the popular notion of angels, drawing on well-known biblical examples such as the angel Gabriel’s visitation to Mary.
He then delves into the biography of Saint Gertrude, born in 1256 in Germany, who was sent to a monastery at the age of five. Gertrude’s life was characterized by her piety, intelligence, and deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which became central to her spiritual teachings and visions. Tom recounts some of these visions which she documented in detail, sharing Christ’s messages and promises with her religious community.
A significant aspect of Gertrude’s life was the divine promises she received, emphasizing God’s mercy and love. These revelations were meant to draw people closer to God, highlighting his enduring love despite human forgetfulness and sinfulness. Gertrude’s writings, particularly “The Herald of Divine Love,” played a crucial role in the development of devotion to Christ’s Sacred Heart, a theme later echoed by other saints, underscoring its timeless relevance.
Tom reflects on the modern-day implications of Gertrude’s life and visions, questioning whether contemporary society, with its frequent disregard for spiritual matters, might be the “latter times” Christ referred to in his revelations to Gertrude. He concludes the episode by urging listeners to consider their own spiritual lives in light of the teachings and experiences of Saint Gertrude the Great, exploring the need for a renewed devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in today’s world.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Heavenly Assignments – Tom discusses how the concept of angels on special assignments, as depicted in popular films, aligns with biblical narratives. [00:00:01]
Chapter 2: Human Forgetfulness and Divine Interventions – Exploring how historical apparitions served as reminders for humanity’s diversion from spiritual priorities. [00:01:26]
Chapter 3: The Saintly Life of Gertrude the Great – Tom introduces Saint Gertrude, describing her early life, spiritual journey, and the special title bestowed upon her. [00:02:31]
Chapter 4: Gertrude’s Monastic Beginning – The environment and influences that shaped Gertrude’s early monastic life are discussed in detail. [00:03:55]
Chapter 5: Divine Visions and Growing Piety – Insights into the significant spiritual encounters Gertrude experienced, shaping her dedication to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. [00:06:51]
Chapter 6: Gertrude’s Written Works: Legacy of Divine Love – Tom details Gertrude’s influential writings, emphasizing devotion to the Sacred Heart and their impact on religious scholarship and devotion. [00:11:57]
Chapter 7: The Marks of Sanctity and Miracles – Exploring the supernatural aspects of Gertrude’s life, including prophecies and miracles attributed to her devout life. [00:13:50]
Chapter 8: Christ’s Endorsement and the Sacred Heart – Gertrude’s role as a precursor to later devotions to the Sacred Heart is considered in the messages she received from Jesus. [00:16:30]
Chapter 9: Universal Promises and Late Life – The universal promises made through Gertrude, her later life experiences, and final visions are recounted. [00:18:03]
Chapter 10: Reflection on Gertrude’s Impact and Relevance Today – Tom reflects on what Gertrude’s life and messages might mean for contemporary society, questioning if we might be living in the “latter times” she foretold. [00:20:18]
Saint Gertrude the Great, also known as Gertrude of Helfta, was a German Benedictine nun, mystic, and theologian who lived in the 13th century. Born into nobility, Gertrude was sent to the monastery at an early age, dedicating her life to prayer and contemplation. Known for her deep spiritual insights and extraordinary visions, she developed a close relationship with Jesus and the saints. Her profound writings, particularly her spiritual exercises and prayers, have had a lasting impact on Christian spirituality. Gertrude is remembered as a patron saint of the West Indies and has been acknowledged for her humility, wisdom, and devotion throughout her life.
Tom Shrewsbury (1930-2012) was born in Springfield, MO. He spent several years in the professional theatre where he worked with such celebrities as Vincent Price, Lucille Ball, and Carol Burnett.
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