Emiritorio Puerta Del Cielo-Door To Heaven Hermitage, I just love this name.
I wanted to write something a bit more uplifting and positive since my last two blogs were reflections of my traumatization of seeing the “New” Mexico. I am devastated by the changes I have seen.
You know as I reflect on my family we are all composed of many members, each with their individual faults and gifts. We will focus on the latter.
One that comes to mind that needs to be recognized is my paternal Abuelita’s nephew, which would make him my 1st cousin once removed. Whatever that means. Fray Pacifico Rubalcalba, known affectionately as Tio Chavo. I had heard of him from my Abuelita, when I was younger. But, only became interested in him several years ago, while on my latest trip to Guadalajara. He is 83 years old. He lives in one of three Hermitages in Mexico.
He was born in the community of Jagüey, Tepatitlán, Jalisco, on the 4th of February in 1933. Son of Don Teodoro Ruvalcaba de la Torre y Doña María Loreto Lozano Gómez, christened with the name of Salvador.
It is said that as young boy he would assist in catechism. He was attracted to a certain statue, on the alter of St. Francis of Assisi. He mentioned to his Abuelita he would like to follow St. Francis of Assisi.
Although society may not understand what would lead a person to dedicate your life completely to God.
He believes, “that when a mans destiny is written, no humanly power can change the course.”
They prize opportunities for quiet, deep and prolonged prayer as a call that is central to Franciscan living.
As if to live in a space separate from reality! He has chosen to live a life separated and isolated from mankind. He lives a contemplative life.
All of the monks go through several challenges; one is called El Camino de La Vida. Where they walk in a dark cave in prayer and meditation; to test their devotion to God and conquer all fears and insecurities for three days. Three representing the Resurrection of our Lord. Just to listen to him, his voice is so mellow. You become quickly aware of his enlightenment. I am in awe of his life. My wish is to go to Zacatecas and visit him before he or I part.
In my family we were all baptized Catholic. I had felt for many years that the Catholic Church was not meeting my needs. So I prayed and sought. And, have finally found a church that speaks, hums, sings, whispers, signs, and yells out to me. I am a Christian, but not Catholic.
Abrazos y Besos
