Pope Francis has designated the Monday after Pentecost as the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. The Acts of the Apostles describes how those first followers of Jesus gathered around Mary as the Church was coming to birth. All these devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. The significance of the ancient title of Mary is captured in a sermon that St. Augustine gave. Mary, he reminded us, is a member of the Church, redeemed by Christ — the pre-eminent member, but still a member of the body. We in turn are called to imitate Mary in bringing Christ to birth in the world by our faith and love.
MAY242021
By Church Staff