This Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. We are reminded of the great mystery of the Trinity – three persons in one God. The third person of God was revealed and gifted to us last week at Pentecost and becomes our companion and counselor. Starting this year, we also celebrate another important truth of the Church. On March 3 Pope Francis decreed that the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church would be added to the Marian feasts of the Church and celebrated the Monday following Pentecost. Given Mary’s intimate relationship with each of the three persons of the Trinity, what a fitting tribute and connection this makes. Furthermore, it is Mary who stood at the foot of the cross “accepting her Son’s testament of love and welcomed all people in the person of the beloved disciple as sons and daughters to be reborn unto life eternal.” It is Mary who prayed with the apostles in the Upper Room as they awaited the Holy Spirit. In a very special way, it is Mary who brings the heart and love of a mother to the Church.
As Vincentians, Mary additionally serves as our Patroness. Her complete submission to and acceptance of the Father’s will is our model of acceptance of Divine Providence. She brought gentleness and kindness to all that she did. She acted in great humility giving selflessly and completely of herself. She displays the patience of a mother waiting for her children to come home. And yet her passion and love of our Lord Jesus is unmatched. AS we go out to those who are in need, we would do well to emulate her motherly love, passion, patience and kindness. Do I go to those in need with the spirit of Mary, giving myself completely to their needs at the time? Do I seek Mary’s guidance and intercession in my life and the life of others?
Lord Jesus, your mother Mary modeled for us the perfect response to your call to each of us. Allow me the grace to see in her actions that which you ask of me. Give me humility and patience like hers. Allow the passion and love that she had for you and for the Church to become my passion and love. In a special way, let me share that with those neighbors who we meet that are in need. We pray all of this in your name. Amen
Deacon Mike