 The years following 1940 were filled with much physical pain, including a heart attack, diabetes, severe arthritis, and eventually blindness; mystical experiences, including the stigmata; and a close relationship with Fr.von Balthasar, who became her spiritual director and confidant and with whom she co-founded a secular institute, the (Community of St. John).While in a state of contemplative, mystical prayer, she dictated to Fr.