Where Helene Hadsell Went for Answers
In Helene’s third book, Confessions of an 83-Year-Old Sage, she included a chapter describing her direct experiences with discarding old mindsets. During my third road trip to Texas this year, I made a point of visiting the chapel where Helene attended Mass.
We arrived at the Church of the Incarnation around lunchtime after a full morning that began with coffee with Dike, a stop at the West Irving Library to donate a set of Helene’s books, and a visit to the house she won on Rochelle Boulevard. I didn’t realize a service was in progress until I attempted to film the exterior for my blog about Helene’s levitating experience, when I suddenly noticed a steady stream of people exiting the church.
Based on Helene’s description, the surrounding area has undergone considerable changes over the past 50 to 60 years. A major landscaping project is also currently underway. Because of this, and out of respect for the service, I took only one rather poor photo from outside the church, and a short video.
Here is an excerpt from Helene’s account of her experience at the Church of the Incarnation:
Are You Still in Bondage?
At the time, I lived in Texas, and the Catholic University was only two blocks from my home. I knew that there was a Chapel on the grounds and probably would have a service.
Angela insisted that I call to get the details regarding their service. I was told Mass would be at three that afternoon.
“We must go,” she insisted.
My attitude was, What the heck! If this pleases her, I’ll go.
As we sat in the pew, surrounded by students waiting for the Mass to begin, a young priest came out of the vestibule. He stood for a moment, looking around at the congregation, and announced, “I’m Father Thomas. I’m new on the campus. It is my understanding that at this Mass, there will be no sermon, but I feel compelled to discuss the subject of BONDAGE today.” As he emphasized the word ‘bondage,’ his eyes locked on me as his head began nodding up and down as if acknowledging someone’s instructions.
I gave a surprised gasp as I felt Angela nudge me on the arm. When I turned to look at her, she too nodded her head and grinned. I knew what she was thinking; See, I told you that you can get answers by going to church.
Once most of the parishioners had left, we went inside. I could imagine Helene sitting in those pews, finding the answers she was seeking. I also went into the St. Thomas Aquinas Eucharistic Chapel, made a donation, lit a candle, and offered a prayer for Helene.
