J.M.J.
Thorlak of Iceland: Who Rose Above Autism to Become Patron
Saint of His People by Aimee O’Connell. Illustrated by Sigurbjorg
Eyjolfsdottir. San
Jose, California: Chaos to Order Publishing, 2018. Paperback. Large Print.
xviii + 251. $19.95.
Another time and place, to be sure. But,
oh, so relevant for our era!
This is how one could rightly sum up the
milieu of Saint Thorlak of Iceland (1133-1193). Canonized on January 14, 1984
by Saint John Paul II (1978-2005), Saint Thorlak is remembered for his
outstanding personal holiness and apostolic contributions, both of which are a
marvel to consider.
Sanctity and a concern for those who
suffer are always in vogue. Although in a location and century much different
from ours, at least in part, Saint Thorlak, the Patron Saint of Iceland, gives
witness to the perennial values that never become outdated regardless of
surroundings or epoch.
Steeped in God’s grace, this humble man,
who was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at the age of eighteen, did not allow
the challenges of autism to frustrate his generous response to the Lord. He
embraced his Catholic Faith and sought the Grace that comes only from Jesus
Christ through Mary, His Mother.
Many intricate details of the life of
Saint Thorlak, whose Feast is December 23rd, have been lost to
history. Nevertheless, we have what is required: sufficient knowledge to
appreciate what the Creator accomplished through this priest and bishop. His
tireless service edifies almost 900 years later.
I am grateful for a look at some
biographical data about the authoress of this book that is provided on the
Amazon author’s page: “Aimee
O’Connell is the founder of the Mission of Saint Thorlak, an online apostolate
inspired by its namesake ‘to understand, recognize, address and prevent
spiritual starvation, letting people with autism lead us on our way.’ Aimee
brings many perspectives to her writing: she is a Third Order Carmelite, a
certified school psychologist, a wife and mother of three, and a person herself
who has autism. She has worked in school and day treatment settings as a
therapist, psychologist, advocate and consultant, and has authored several
articles on autism and spirituality. Aimee currently devotes her days to the
continuous discoveries and adventures of homeschooling with her children.”
I join my voice to the many who have thanked
and congratulated Mrs. O’Connell on her patience and dogged research. In an age
that desperately needs good examples and unfailing outreach to those with
autism and all who carry the heavy Cross of Christ, Thorlak of Iceland: Who Rose
Above Autism to Become Patron Saint
of His People offers hope to all of us.
V. Saint Thorlak of Iceland.
R. Pray for us.
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