Sunday, May 25, 2025

Moments With Mary

 


  I  often share my everyday moments of turning to Mary for help. I can't imagine my life without her by my side. I honestly think the world would be better if everyone entrusted themselves to Mary's care.  But today, I want to emphasize that our relationship with Mary is not one-sided. Just as she is there for us, we can also be there for her. 

 Every parent worries about their child.  I've taken my little worries and my big ones to Mary.  Wrapped up in my own distress, I have even mistakenly told Mary that she was so lucky to have the child Jesus. Instantly, I am reminded that my children are her children, and she has many more children to guide. Truly, Mary knows the pain of motherhood. 

 This week, let's come together in prayer. Ask Mary what troubles her heart, and if you could pray with her for that intention. Allow Mary to use our collective prayers for something beyond our reach or understanding. Place your hand in hers as she prays the Rosary. Let her know that at this moment, we are here for her, just as she has been for us. Together, let's help her guide someone else back to our Lord.  

-Susan

 

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Moments With Mary

 


  I sat alone with the darkness all around me.  My thoughts weighed heavily on my mind and heart.  Too many questions with answers out of my control.  I couldn't fix this situation. These cards weren't dealt to me, but to someone else.  The results, however, would impact everyone.  

  All I could do was pray.  The waters of doubt and "what ifs" rose higher. I needed help. I turned towards the only window open to me. With my tear-stained eyes closed, I took in a deep breath of fresh air. A soft breeze touched my face as I exhaled.  I opened my eyes, and a small smile began to form. There in the moonlight was Mary.  Some would say she was just a statue, but my heart would never believe that. My mother is always there for me.  I felt her presence and her love.  I was not alone, and this darkness would not overcome me. 

  Together, we continued to pray. Our prayer ended with her loving arms embracing me as  I whispered, " Praise be to God! I  trust you, Lord. Amen."

-Susan

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Moments Wth Mary And The New Pope!

 


  I, along with the rest of the world, am very excited to welcome Pope Leo XIV as the new successor of St. Peter!  I loved that the white smoke captivated the whole world, and everyone wondered who would be the next Pope for the Catholic Church. Our faith in the risen Christ is personal and intimate, and yet it is also universal.  Moments such as these allow us to experience and share our faith with others around the world. I had tears in my eyes standing less than a foot from my television and praying the Hail Mary with the new Pope and everyone worldwide! And even though I was not in St. Peter's Square, it was an incredible moment!

 This joyful moment of meeting our new Holy Father filled me with hope. I am eager to learn what our new Holy Father will teach us during this Jubilee Year of Hope and the personal insights he will share from his journey with Christ. Since Pope Leo XIV began his papacy by leading us in praying the Hail Mary, I believe he will lead us to Christ through Mary, which is my favorite path. I am excited for the journey ahead under his guidance.

 I would also like to take this moment to express my profound gratitude to God for the gift of Pope Francis. I will never forget his special Jubilee Year of Mercy and his tireless efforts to include everyone in Jesus' gospel of love.

 Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful moms out there, from all walks of life and corners of the world! I hope you all have a blessed day celebrating your earthly mother and our beautiful Mother in Heaven!

-Susan  



Sunday, May 4, 2025

Moments With Mary

 


  Happy May, everyone! May is the month we turn our eyes toward our heavenly Mother, Mary. Mary is so important in my life that I sometimes forget that many do not have a close personal relationship with her and don't even realize how much sweeter life can be when you reach out to Mary asking for her guidance and intercession. Let's celebrate the joy of a personal connection with Mary this month and inspire others to draw near to her.

 Recently, my daughter shared an experience she had with a friend. During their conversation, the friend was trying to remember a word. He said, "You know those necklaces some people wear with the beads and the cross?"

 My daughter laughed.  "You mean a rosary?'  She stretched out her hands in both directions, exclaiming, "I could probably reach out and touch a rosary in whatever room I am in my house."  She spun around and spotted one of my rosaries on the table. "It's not a necklace; the Rosary is a prayer.  My Mom's favorite."

 I laughed when she told me this story.  I do have several rosaries in different rooms in my house.  I like to pray everywhere, so that makes sense to me.  I know  I can call  Mary day or night; she is by my side. Mary is never too busy for me, and I hope my days are never too busy for Mary.

 This month, I challenge you to make room for Mary. Remember, the Rosary isn't a necklace or a keepsake; it is a powerful prayer that calls the Mother of God to your side.  Enjoy talking and learning from her.  She has so much she wants to share with you.

-Susan