What can we learn from Mary's parents, Anne and Joaquim?
by Sister Agnes Fischer
Because a Sunday of Advent takes precedence over a feast, the Immaculate Conception will be celebrated on Monday, Dec. 9.
Mary, under this title, is the patroness of our country and also of my adopted country, Nicaragua, where the feast is called Purisima and is celebrated for eight days. Therefore, I would like to reflect:
- Did Anne and Joaquim realize the treasures that were given to their care in their daughter, Mary, and in their Grandson?
- Did they realize they had brought into existence someone greater than anyone or anything created up to this point?
- Did they realize that, as they taught Mary her catechism, she would one day teach those same truths to the Son of God?
- What kind of parents, grandparents or neighbors would we be if we had lived next door to this family? What kind are we now?
Dear Joaquim and Anne, you were truly twice blessed to have Mary as your daughter and Jesus as your grandson. Help grandparents to know just where their duties lie in any particular situation and to carry them out as best they can.
Keep all of us in your loving care and help us to receive the joy of entering into your Grandson’s glorious presence forever. Amen.
What a beautiful way to enter into this weekend and special Feast Day on Monday. I so appreciate getting these Reflections. They give me "pause" as I prepare for my own weekend Homily!
May God Bless all the Good Sisters!
In Christ's Never-ending Love,
Father Bill Jacobs