I gave a talk about the saints a few days ago, together with Hannah Vaughan-Spruce. I did some ‘theory’ about what devotion to the saints really means, and how much it can help us in our life and faith; Hannah brought this alive by giving examples of some 20th century saints who really speak to us today. You can watch the talks here:
Or if you are having problems, see them on the Westminster site here.
Hannah is the catechetical coordinator in a big south London parish. She writes an excellent blog, Transformed in Christ, about catechesis.
These two talks are part of the Faith Matters series in central London, which continues on two more Tuesday evenings (15 and 22 Nov). Details here.
Bridges and Tangents 
Very interesting (/ inspiring) talks.
I think Mateo Ricci (利玛窦), the 16th/17th cs fascinating Jesuit missionary (who identified the Chinese Lord of Heaven 天主 with God) is going to become important in the future as Christianity becomes even more important in China and surrounding countries, and when Christianity becomes less focused on its European / Greco/Roman influences (important as these are, of course) and more universal (i.e. incorporating more, Eastern learning, Tao, 道, for example as well as learning from other parts of the globe – without ever undermining orthodox faith) – and i am purposefully using Chinese symbols as it just reminds me, at least, just how universal (and fascinating) the Church really is ..
As an adult one of my dearest friends who knows me and my poems inside out, brought me one christmas the most perfect gift. A childrens book with the most simple and beautiful language and illustrations. It was The circle of days from canticle of the sun by Saint Francis of asissi. Treasure.
Funnily enough since then, I have gathered about me a family of special saints whom I have a great affection for, my spiritual family. Not disimilar in number to the special intimate friends upon earth, to read about them from different perspectives is to really come to know them, but to pray together is for them to come to know us. The talk was great. I especially liked your healing final example. And it was dearly refreshing for a change to hear about saints with families (especially ones with five children) hope yet!