A Question about Saint Teresa

Dear Father John,

Last weekend, in the parish bulletin, the Mass for Wednesday, October 15 was listed as the Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus. Can you tell me when her name changed from Saint Teresa of Avila, and why?
Mandy

Dear Mandy,

That’s a very good question. Last week, when I was preparing my reflections for my other blog, Bear Witness to the Light, I was somewhat surprised to see the name of the Saint of the Day on October 15 listed as Saint Teresa of Jesus. So, when you asked, I decided to do some research on the topic, and started at the very top, at www.vatican.va , the Holy See website

What I found, in the archives of John Paul II and Benedict XVI, is that both Popes refer to the Saint of the Day on October 15 just about equally as Teresa of Avila and Teresa of Jesus.

What Is The Right Way To Genuflect?

Hi!

I'm in the 7th grade at a private Catholic school, and it is my first year there. We go to church a couple times a month. I have a qusetion. When you genuflect what knee do you go down on while entering and leaving the pew? Also, do you make the sign of the cross while doing this?

Another question: Could you explain what beads go with what beads for the rosary? I understand that this might take a lot of time so you can just give me a website that has information on the rosary. Or you can just quickly give me an understanding of the Rosary. I don't mind.

Thanks for everything.

Sincerely,

Nicole

Dear Nicole,

You asked two questions, and I'm going to answer them both separately.

To genuflect is to touch the knee to the ground in a gesture of reverence and worship. Entering and leaving the pew, we touch our right knee to the ground. Many people make the Sign of the Cross when they genuflect. It is not required, but it is a worthy act of devotion.

Your second question is about how to pray the Rosary.  That question requires a detailed answer, so, for the sake of time and band-width, I will answer it separately.

May God bless you abundantly, Nicole.

Father John L