by Sister Elise Cholewinski
On Monday, Aug. 15, the Catholic Church celebrates the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven. We believe that after she died Mary was taken body and soul to her eternal home. But just who is Mary? How are we to think of her?
In her book, "Truly Our Sister," Sister Elizabeth Johnson, CSJ, presents two ways of viewing Mary. We can focus on her as the Mother of Jesus. She conceived by the Holy Spirit, carried the Child Jesus in her womb, gave birth to Him in Bethlehem, and raised the boy in the humble town of Nazareth in the Galilean culture of northern Israel. We can also turn our attention to Mary being a disciple of Christ. She followed Jesus through His public ministry, which culminated at the foot of the cross. Mary had the primary qualification of a disciple: she knew how to listen to the Word of God and keep it. Eventually she would join the group of disciples in the upper room, waiting for another visitation of the Holy Spirit and another nativity, the birth of the Church at Pentecost.
We honor Mary as the Mother of Jesus, but we are also called to travel with her as disciples of Christ, listening to the Word of God and walking the journey of the Paschal Mystery with her and her Son. Mary not only intercedes for us but she accompanies us. Why not join the crowd?
Oh what a joy it is to read your thoughts and questions for reflection.
Miss you Thursday mornings!
I'm currently reading "33 Days to Morning Glory" in preparation for consecration to Mary. Such deep theology about her participation in the mystery of redemption! And such beautiful meditations on her love for us as our Mother. I'm definitely joining the crowd!
Have been a "member of the crowd" since I was a young boy. Thank you Mother Mary for accompanying me on my walk, and thank you Sister for your loving reflection.
Thanks, Elise, for 2 clear descriptions of our Mother Mary...a perfect model of discipleship.