Solemnity of Mary, The Holy Mother of God

Of all the feasts dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary, The Solemnity of Mary, The Mother of God is the most highly celebrated.  Why is this? A simple answer can be found in the prayer every child learns on his/her mother’s lap at a very early age.

HAIL MARY, FULL OF GRACE

THE LORD IS WITH YOU

BLESSED ARE YOU AMONG WOMEN

AND BLESSED IS THE FRUIT OF YOUR WOMB, JESUS.

HOLY MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

PRAY FOR US SINNERS

NOW AND AT THE HOUR OF OUR DEATH. AMEN

Remember when you learned these words. You may have been on your mother’s lap. Your mother may have held you lovingly as she repeated these words over and over again until you were able to repeat them back to her.

I learned about Mary on my mothers lap and it is a lesson that has served me well. I marvel at how often I find myself saying three Hail Marys every time I need some Divine intervention. Three Hail Marys always gives me a sense of well being. I learned that Mary loved me as much as my mother who held me.

I am grateful to the Church for the honor it has given to Mary, the Mother of Jesus; and Mary, my Mother. Thank you, Jesus, for choosing Mary.

Evangeline Salazar, OSB