Prayer

WE GATHER

On Sunday 21 November,  we celebrate the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in communion with thousands of Presentation People and Friends of Nano around the world. This feast day story is not found in the Bible, but it helps us imagine the ways Mary prepared to respond to God’s call. Through the prayers of this novena, we celebrate some women in the Hebrew scriptures whose life stories likely informed Mary’s faith and helped her offer a courageous “Yes!” to God’s call. Even as we celebrate Mary’s call to bring Christ to birth, we are mindful of the needs of all of creation for restoration to wholeness: people, living creatures, Earth, the entire natural universe. The injustices and sufferings on our planet can seem overwhelming. We need each other to bolster our sense of hope. We need to celebrate the stories of heroes like Nano Nagle & Presentation People who have gone before us. These inspiring people boost our resilience in our efforts to share hospitality and persevere in justice work to restore right relationships in our world.

WE LISTEN

The angel went to (Mary) and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is

with you.” In a loud voice (Elizabeth) exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and

blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:28, 42)

WE RESPOND

Faithful God, you create us in your image and draw us

ever closer to you through our promises, and commitments. Through the

intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Venerable Nano Nagle, help us grow in communion with all Presentation People and Friends of Nano around the world as we courageously respond together to the needs of our times. 

Bless the next generations of Presentation People and Friends of Nano with inspiration to rejoice in your call to say “Yes!” as Mary and Nano did. Be with us in our joy today as we celebrate our connections with the global Presentation family on this Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Amen.

Painting above: Cosmic Communion, Dawn of Creation Bursting Forth, Mary Jaeger PBVM

WE ARE SENT

Reflection Questions

• Who are the Presentation People whose lives of faith and service inspire you?
• In what ways is God calling you to deepen your commitment to Christ and say “Yes!” again today?

Blessings,

Christine Savage | Leader of Faith, Formation and Mission