On this feast day it is good to reflect on the history of Mary’s apparition to Juan Diego in 1531. Through the miracles that followed Mary’s presence transformed a people, offering us a clear reminder that God continues to work through his angels and saints.
Mass Readings – The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
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Throughout her life Mary had moments of profound sorrow: the death of the Holy Innocents; the flight into Egypt; relocation to Nazareth; the rejection and betrayal of her Son; his horrific death on the Cross. Yet Mary’s faith in God inspires us to recognize that in these painful moments God is near, offering us the strength we need to carry on.
Mass Readings – Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows
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On this feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne – the parents of Mary – we recognize that God often works through people to carry out the plan of salvation. That means that God works through us! May we today say YES to whatever the Lord sets before us as we do our part to be human agents for God’s grace.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 16th Week of the Year (Joachim & Anne)
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In the exchange between Mary and Elizabeth the two women give praise and thanks to God for the blessings they have witnessed. May we take their example to heart and do the same in our lives each and every day.
Mass Readings – The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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Photo Credit: The Nativity Story, 2006.
Since from the beginning of time the plan of salvation included the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross, we thus understand that Mary’s role as the Mother of God was present as well. Chosen by God, her acceptance of the angel Gabriel’s announcement reveals her as the first disciple; her role as Mother of the Messiah reveals her as a Mother to all disciples. May her example inspire us to draw near to her Son!
Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God
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The Blessed Virgin Mary offers an example of faith that transformed the people of Mexico and continues to inspire millions to follow her son, Jesus Christ. May we look to Mary for guidance and wisdom as we continue to proclaim the Good News of the Lord in our lives.
Mass Readings – The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
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Mary was chosen and prepared by God to become the Mother of Jesus, and she accepted this role with a beautiful faith. We, too, have been chosen by the Lord and endowed with particular blessings to bring the Good News to the world. Will we accept the Lord’s call in our lives? May Mary’s example inspire us to say YES!
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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Mass Readings – Our Lady of Sorrows
Following immediately after yesterday’s Feast of the Holy Cross, the readings today focus on Mary as she endured the “sword of sorrow” as she stood at the Cross of her son. Her sorrow reaches out through time and space to all people who have been overwhelmed by grief. May her example help us to face our moments of pain with a sure and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ.
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The Descent from the Cross, Rogier van der Weyden, 1435, Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid.
Note: This is one of the most moving paintings I have ever stood before.
Gospel Reading – The Queenship of Mary – Luke 1:26-38
Mary’s “fiat” to the angel Gabriel cooperates with God’s plan of salvation. Mary serves as our example, Mother, intercessor and guide. She’s also the Queen of Heaven, and through her witness we are inspired to draw near to her Son.
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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts
Mass Readings – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mary’s assumption into Heaven reveals her crucial role in the Church. As the Mother of God her “fiat” to the Angel Gabriel proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and her fidelity to God’s will as she stood at the Cross offers us a profound example as we strive to live our faith in the midst of difficulty.
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Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 