Dancing Monk Feast Days: Reflections, Creative Invitations, and Prayers

January 15^th: St. Íta of Killeedy (c. 480–January 15, 570)

I thirst for divine love.

Íta is the second most significant woman saint in Ireland after Brigid, and her name means thirst. When she was young, she had a dream where she was gifted three precious stones. Unsure of its meaning, she pondered it. Later, in another visitation, it was revealed to her that throughout her life she would receive many dreams and visions, and the three stones represented the gifts of the Trinity coming to her. At the monastery she founded, she educated many young people.

Íta invites you to consider:

For what do you thirst the most now in your life?

Creative Invitation

Collect three stones, images of stones, or other objects of your choice. Settle in with a few deep breaths. One at a time, hold a stone in your hand as you ponder the question, “What do I thirst for in my life today?” Sit with this for a few moments, then use a marker to write a word on the stone that represents this deep desire of your heart or simply make note of it in your mind. Repeat with the other stones using the same question or perhaps evolving to ask, “Where do I find living waters to quench this thirst? In what ways can I offer support to others who seek nourishment?” When you are done, place the stones on your altar or a special place in your home where you can see them each day.

Prayer

Holy Dreamer, you gift us with images, signs, and symbols of your love. Let us thirst not for certainty but for the pathways of mystery. We are ever open to your creative unfolding. Nourish our hearts with night visions and daydreams that reconnect us in relationship with your abiding presence. Stir in us the desire to dance with you, our Maker, Lover, and Keeper, as we participate in bringing about your great dream for kinship, mutuality, and peace.