We danced and we danced, St. Perpetua and me. Her centuries old diary and faith journey illuminated images, visions and questions that filled my head. In my heart, I knew that at Heaven’s Gate I would seek Vibia Perpetua to hold me first. For weeks, I had been seeking forgiveness from my deceased parents for my thoughts and intentions, and my evening prayers had not calmed my restless nights.
As her feast day approached, I continued to struggle with the day attributed to her death in 203 CE. Had she given her life to Christ on March the 6th or the 7th? I was an emotional wreck the night of the 5th, and was intent to attend morning mass on both days.
The following email was composed and sent to three of my dearest friends within minutes of my being awakened. . .
At 3:06 this morning on this March 6th (3-6-2013) I was awaken by a vision (I have had so few in my entire life).
As I walked through the narthex of an early Christian basilica, I appeared to be among women from an ancient market at their booths and tables, smiling and nodding their heads in recognition of me. Before entering the nave of the church, another woman, seated near the archway, gently touched my arm and asked, “At mass this morning, what will you look like?”
I looked into her eyes and as tears cascaded down from mine, I replied, “As lovely as you mom.” It was my mother, in whose presence I was graced. As soon as I had spoken, the other women and many more, including each of you, smiled at me – And I was awaken. . .
Some say historically Saint Perpetua gave her life for Christ on March 6th and the church (who often moves and removes the feast days of the saints) has since 1969 celebrated her feast day on March 7th. Being so awakened this morning, in her honor I will attend mass today and, Nikki and Sherry, I will return home and sign your copies of my memoir today instead of tomorrow. . .
Imagine. . .
My mother loves me, she loves Christine, her smile told me so and at Heaven’s Gate, I believe she, my father and St. Perpetua will be waiting for me.