The Father Willie Doyle Association

Father Willie Doyle Association

Official site for the canonisation cause of the Servant of God Fr Willie Doyle SJ

Spy Wednesday 1917

On Spy Wednesday evening after Benediction, I told the men I wanted nine volunteers to watch an hour during the following night before the Altar of Repose. I had barely finished speaking when the whole church made a rush up to the altar rails and were keenly disappointed when I could only take the first nine, though I could have had thirty an hour if I wanted them. I was touched by the poor fellows’ generosity, for they had just finished a long, hard day’s work with more before them. I got the nine men to bring their blankets into the little sacristy, and while one watched, the others slept. Surely our Lord must have been pleased with His Guard of Honour, and will bless them as only he can.

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April 16, 2025

1 Comment

on Spy Wednesday 1917.
  1. Sister M. Michele S.C.M.C.
    -

    “The spirit is willing…” The Lord is pleased with willingness, effort, and heartfelt responses.
    Father Doyle, your men, eager to draw close to God, and so willing to step up when you asked for volunteers, show that their hearts were longing for the Lord, and that their hearts followed your outstanding witness, charity, and humility. Please help us to develop these virtues, so that we, too, will lead others to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

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