Last Friday, the feast of the Assumption of Mary, the whole school staff gathered for a Staff Spirituality Day. The Assumption of Mary, a special encounter of Mary, beginning in the Eastern church during the 5th century and moving to the West in the 7th century, has been a constant in our tradition. However, this feast was only decreased in 1950. The Assumption of Mary is a moment of hope, when God lifted Mary, body and soul, into heaven. This is not just about Mary; it’s a promise for all of us. A sign that every life lived in love, courage, and faithfulness is held close to God.
Luke 1:46–56 – Mary’s Magnificat
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for God has looked with favour on the lowliness of this servant.
Surely, from now on, all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is God’s name.
God’s mercy is for those who stand in awe,
from generation to generation.
God has shown strength with a mighty arm,
scattering the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones
and lifted up those who are lowly.
God has filled the hungry with good things
and sent the rich away empty.
God has come to the aid of Israel, God’s servant,
remembering mercy, according to the promise made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to all descendants forever.”
May we, like Mary, Catherine, Ursula, Basil, and so many Mercy Women and men before us, be bearers of grace. May we respond to each day with a generous ‘yes’.
Mary, our Mother of Mercy, pray for us.
Catherine, the Vision of Mercy, pray for us.
Ursula, an animator of Mercy, pray for us.
Basil, our foundation of Mercy, pray for us.
Image from: The Assumption of Mary. Watercolour by: Ronald Raab, CSC 2019