Many folks who are new to St James’ ask me questions about Mary. People are most often curious what we believe about her, and why she features so prominently in our worship space and prayer/liturgical life. These are really good questions, and I’m always so happy to get them!
Every person who has a particular Marian devotion will answer these questions differently, of course. I sometimes share my own devotion (some of which was in last year’s Clergy Notes), but mostly I like to talk about who Mary is to us – not just as individuals or even as a parish, but as a whole community of Christian believers. First and foremost, Mary is the one who first said ‘yes’ to God’s invitation to bear Christ into the world. Without her ‘yes’ it would not have been possible for God to become incarnate… and the story of humankind’s redemption would have been very different indeed! If nothing else, we owe her a great debt for the sacrifice she made on all our behalf, and the example she gives all of us through her courageous, steadfast faith.
Because of the unique relationship Mary had with Jesus on Earth, we know she played an important role in his worldview and religious training, as well as encouraging and supporting him in his earthly ministry. She was there at every critical moment from start to painful finish. But she didn’t disappear even then, even to mourn the devastating loss of her beloved son. She remained with the disciples after Jesus’ death, and was present at the moment of the Holy Spirit’s descent at Pentecost. Her whole life was devoted to the mission of God, even through her own suffering. Mary isn’t just the Mother of Jesus; she is the Mother of GOD, and the Mother of all believers.
Just as we ask for the prayers of the saints, so we ask for Mary’s prayers, trusting that she always intercedes for us, still loving us just as her Son does, and still encouraging the church she helped to birth in its continued mission on earth. We give thanks today for the Blessed Virgin Mary, and for her ministry as the first to bear the chalice of Christ in the world. Mary, Mother of God, pray with us and for us!
Mother Amanda