Today we remember Saint John of the Cross (1541-1591), a Spanish saint known for documenting his “Dark Night of the Soul.” Misunderstood, mistreated, and maligned – John of the Cross came to know the dark intimately while imprisoned for his progressive faith. Yet through the depths of his experiences he came to a deeper understanding of the incredible heights of God’s love.
May we learn from his example to seek God even when we feel abandoned and don’t understand: God’s love is with us in the darkest places of our lives.
“In the dark night of the soul, bright flows the river of God.” Saint John of the Cross
“The endurance of darkness is the preparation for great light.” Saint John of the Cross
“Where there is no love, put love, and you will draw love out.” St. John of the Cross
grace, peace & Light (in darkness)
Virginia : )
Photos: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Roses in the Rubble 
Love your pictures
Thank you, Carol-Jo. Took those pictures at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond last year during their Gardenfest Winter light festival. So beautiful!! Blessings, prayers & lots of love! 🙂
I am pleased to see a post about John of the Cross. Reading his book, Dark Night of the Soul gave me a little perspective for the terrible path of life. Later in the book he gives his description of the sequel to the dark night of the soul: the dark night of the spirit. Dear God.
here is an poetic journal of the experience:
https://soon.school.blog/2019/08/26/a-poem-sandsoul/
Thank you for sharing your powerful poem. I have appreciated the dark nights of John of the Cross for many years, especially during tough times. Glad to ‘meet’ another John of the Cross groupie. Blessings! ✨🙏✨
May we soon meet in the light of dawn. Love to you.
Amen 🌟💕🤗☀️