The Moth Podcast: George Lombardi & Mary Navarre Release Date: August 30, 2016

Introduction

In this special episode of The Moth, host Dan Kennedy honors the upcoming canonization of Mother Teresa by featuring two heartfelt stories intertwined with the lives of religious sisters. The episode showcases the profound impact of faith, perseverance, and human connection through the experiences of Dr. George Lombardi and Sister Mary Navarre.

Dr. George Lombardi’s Story: A Life-Changing Consultation with Mother Teresa

Timestamp: 02:14 – 18:25

Overview: Dr. George Lombardi, an infectious disease specialist from New York City, recounts the extraordinary circumstances that led him to consult on the health of Mother Teresa. His narrative highlights the intersection of medicine, faith, and destiny.

Key Points:

• Unexpected Call for Consultation: Dr. Lombardi receives a frantic call from a representative seeking his expertise on a potential viral hemorrhagic fever case involving a Nobel laureate, later revealed to be Mother Teresa. (05:00)

  "At this point I paused and I gathered myself. And I asked the obvious question, who are you?" — Dr. George Lombardi (04:00)

• Rapid Arrangements and Assistance from the Sisters: Despite logistical challenges, including an expired passport, Dr. Lombardi is swiftly arranged to travel to Calcutta with the unwavering support of five Sisters of Charity. Their determination enables his last-minute travel arrangements. (07:30)

  "These sisters are little devils. I'm going to tell Mother Teresa what you just did." — Dr. George Lombardi (11:00)

• Meeting Mother Teresa: Upon arrival, Dr. Lombardi meets the ailing Mother Teresa, whose strength and faith leave a lasting impression. Her interaction underscores her deep reliance on her Indian doctors and the sisters. (13:45)

  "I will never leave Calcutta. Do not ever disagree, do not ever disagree with my Indian doctors." — Mother Teresa (14:30)

• Medical Challenge and Persistence: Faced with diagnosing Mother Teresa’s condition, Dr. Lombardi navigates cultural and institutional barriers. His persistence leads to the discovery that a faulty pacemaker was the root cause of her septic shock. (16:50)

  "She could bleed into her chest and die within a matter of minutes." — Dr. George Lombardi (17:20)

• Resolution and Lasting Impact: Successfully removing the pacemaker leads to Mother Teresa’s recovery. Dr. Lombardi’s relationship with the sisters evolves into a lifelong bond, illustrating the enduring power of compassion and collaboration. (18:10)

  "In the convent, we think of you as a rock star." — Sister Mary Navarre (18:15)

Sister Mary Navarre’s Story: From Skepticism to Devotion

Timestamp: 19:03 – 29:24

Overview: Sister Mary Navarre shares her transformative journey from a rebellious youth questioning her faith to a dedicated member of the Dominican Sisters. Her story emphasizes themes of struggle, discovery, and renewed faith.

Key Points:

• Early Rebellion and Loss: Growing up in a Catholic household, Mary Navarre initially resents the strictures of Catholic education, especially after her sister contracts polio. This event leads to her questioning God's benevolence. (21:15)

  "So I withdrew and I read a lot. And then I found out that the suffering of the innocent was not her exclusive prerogative." — Sister Mary Navarre (22:50)

• Education and Realizations: After dropping out of Catholic school, she grapples with cynicism and existential questions but eventually finds solace in teaching and the love of children. (24:30)

  "It just kind of rode out of town on the infectious enthusiasm of those children." — Sister Mary Navarre (25:45)

• Spiritual Awakening: A profound experience at Marywood, the Mother House in Grand Rapids, rekindles her faith. The chanting and the genuine love among the sisters inspire her to commit to religious life. (27:00)

  "I felt like a moth that had been too long in the cold and dark and had finally seen the light and warmth of a gentle flame." — Sister Mary Navarre (27:30)

• Embracing Faith and Purpose: Joining the Dominican Sisters, Mary Navarre finds purpose and joy in her faith, overcoming her earlier doubts and embracing a life of service and community. (28:15)

  "Now every single morning I wake up and I feel like I can just fly on the wings of dawn into one more amazing day." — Sister Mary Navarre (28:10)

Conclusion

This episode of The Moth beautifully intertwines the lives of Dr. George Lombardi and Sister Mary Navarre, showcasing how moments of crisis and personal struggle can lead to profound connections and lasting transformations. Through their stories, listeners are reminded of the enduring power of faith, compassion, and the human spirit.

Additional Information

• Dr. George Lombardi: A lifelong New Yorker and graduate of City College of New York and New York University School of Medicine. Inspired by his father's storytelling, Dr. Lombardi has dedicated his life to both medicine and sharing meaningful narratives.

• Sister Mary Navarre: Currently serves as the Director of Archives for the Dominican Sisters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She cherishes her role in preserving the rich history of the sisters and fostering connections through shared stories.

Produced by Mooj Zaidy and recorded at Argo Studios in New York City. Presented by PRX, the Public Radio Exchange.