The Book of Heaven
—Unofficial Version—

April 1, 1900

Passions changed into virtues.

After waiting and waiting, my sweet Jesus made Himself seen within my heart.  I seemed to see a sun spreading its rays, and in looking into the center of this sun, I could see the face of Our Lord.  But that which amazed me was seeing many maidens clothed in white within my heart, with crowns on their heads, surrounding this divine Sun and nourishing themselves with the rays which this Sun was spreading.  Oh, how beautiful they were! – modest, humble, all intent on Jesus, and delighting in Him! 

Not knowing the meaning of this, with a little bit of concern I asked Jesus to let me know who those maidens were; and Jesus told me:  “These maidens were your passions, which now, by my grace, I have changed into as many virtues, which form my noble cortege, remaining all at my disposal.  And I, as recompense, keep nourishing them with my continuous grace.”  Ah, Lord, yet, I feel I am so bad that I am ashamed of myself!