The Memorare

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intersession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly to thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother. To thee we come, before thee we stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of The Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy, hear and answer me. 

On this day, St. Anne gave birth to Our Lady. For many years she grieved, because she thought that she was too old to have children. Mary is a miracle, the Mother of God, and our pathway to heaven.

It is her love that helps guide us, her loving heart that comforts us.

Mary, you endured so much for your son. You gave birth as a teenager, in a foul-smelling stable in the middle of the night. You loved your son and nurtured him. You nearly died of fright when he disappeared for three days in the city of Jerusalem. When he grew up, you were pained to part with your only son. When he began preaching and preforming miracles, you felt a mother's pride.

Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed." (Luke 2:34-35)

When Jesus suffered and died on the cross, no one suffered more than you. Surely, the sight of such bloody torture would have been more than you could bear. But you kept your faith, and you trusted in your son's wisdom.

On Easter Sunday, you were shocked to find your son's tomb empty. You were even more surprised when an angel appeared, and told you that he was no longer there. No one was as overjoyed as you were when Jesus appeared again.

You endured so much, Mary, without a single complaint. I shall strive to be like you, dear Mother.

O Mary, Mother of Christ, pray for me, a sinner, that I may enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

(Coincidentally, it is also Brother Number Two's birthday! :D)