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During the next couple of years, I read books written by Father, listened to his tapes, shared these with my husband and daughter, and began studying the Bible. I became more drawn to him and the Catholicism and beliefs he professed.
Then in August of 1998, while our daughter was visiting from Europe , a series of circumstances (actually, graces) brought us to a little Catholic chapel near our home. We hadn't even known it existed. Upon entering for Mass, we knew immediately this was part of the Traditional "underground" Church (which is preserving the real Mass and doctrine of the Catholic faith) Father had spoken of and written about.
My daughter and I had found a spiritual home. My husband had returned "home" to the faith of his childhood and youth.
Six weeks later Father Malachi had a stroke. I began writing him weekly. I wanted him to know how much he meant to me and to thank him for his positive influence on my life. I had no expectations that he would or could respond. During the meantime, I was learning more about my new Catholic faith and keeping Father informed of my progress.
In late February I completed my catechism, was baptized and had my First Confession and Communion. Within several days I flew to Europe for the birth of a new grandbaby. While there, I received two unexpected letters from Father Malachi. How thoughtful of him that during his recovery, the writing of his new book, and the demands on him, he would take time to congratulate me on the "celebration" of my "good news."
"Now your are fully exposed to His grace," Father wrote, and "you shall be continually in my
Masses and my prayers."
The second letter came after the birth of my granddaughter. "Blessings to Sabine Marie," he wrote.
"Yes, she has a very special future." Anyone who knew Father Malachi, knows he was devoted to the Blessed Virgin. He was very pleased this baby was given her name.
Father's influence had led to my daughter's conversion from near the edge of atheism. Through her, her Catholic husband was revitalized in his faith. This meant my grandchildren would be brought up in a Catholic home.
Before returning to the States, I flew to Ireland and drove the "Ring of Kerry." Father was born in County Kerry . Upon my return, I wrote him about my adventures and sent him some photos. Again, he blessed me with a
response ...and a premonition.
"You give me a severe bout of nostalgia for a land I will not see again in this life."
I am so fortunate and blessed to have had the privilege of knowing Malachi Martin for just the little bit and the little while I did. I never knew the color of his eyes, or the feel of his handshake, or the breadth of his stride. But I knew the immensity of his heart and the depth of his faith.
Father once said he
"lusted" for the knowledge of God that we could only attain through our Lord Jesus Christ upon our death. Now he knows.
Therefore, amidst the sorrow of our selfish remorse, grant us, Lord, the grace to rejoice.
AVE MARIA GRATIA PLENA,
Iva Joyce Scheidemantel
North Olmsted, OH
6 August 1999
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