Reflection

Mary

Do you ever feel like you could use some help approaching God in your prayers? 

When we ask Mary to pray for us, we honour and worship her Son, who is more than happy to listen to His mother's pleas on our behalf. Catholic prayer is not really directed to Mary in the way that it is directed to God. Therefore, she is seen as a go-between, speaking to God on behalf of us.

This form of prayer, known as Marian prayer, invites us to ask Mary for her assistance and her grace, especially when we feel most troubled in our daily lives. May is a month especially devoted to Marian Prayer. The most well-known Marian Prayer is the Hail Mary-

Hail Mary, 

Full of Grace, 

The Lord is with thee. 

Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit

of thy womb, Jesus. 

Holy Mary, Mother of God, 

pray for us sinners now, 

and at the hour of our death.  Amen.

At Nazareth College, we can particularly keep in mind the homeless and those doing it tough this winter. The College Vinnies Group is conducting a winter appeal to help those affected. We can also assist through prayer especially by praying the Rosary, a special Marian Prayer. Students are praying this prayer during Religious Education classes.

May we always be able to ask Mary for her assistance and her grace, in whatever difficulties we are experiencing in our daily lives. May we, like Mary, be faithful to the promptings of the Spirit. Like Mary, may we be open and present to the needs of others and show kindness. Like Mary, may we help celebrate the joyful times and be there for others in the difficult times as well. 

Holy Family of Nazareth – Be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth – Help us to grow in faith, wisdom and knowledge.

Mr Peter Stewart

Director of Faith and Mission