She beheld her tender Child

Greetings on this the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows
Readings: 1 Tm 3:14-16; PS 111:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; Jn 19:25-27
Notes:

John’s account of Jesus’ death is highly symbolic. When Jesus gives the beloved disciple to Mary, we are invited to appreciate Mary’s role in the Church: She symbolizes the Church; the beloved disciple represents all believers. As Mary mothered Jesus, she is now mother to all his followers. Furthermore, as Jesus died, he handed over his Spirit. Mary and the Spirit cooperate in begetting new children of God—almost an echo of Luke’s account of Jesus’ conception. Christians can trust that they will continue to experience the caring presence of Mary and Jesus’ Spirit throughout their lives and throughout history. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/our-lady-of-sorrows

First reading
I hope to visit you soon.

Paul knows to be in community is an essential part of the Christian way of living.

• Even when we are introverts, we need community.
• Even when we are rich, we need community.
• Even when we are self reliant, we need community.
• Even when everyone disappoints us, we need community.

You were born of community (Mom and Dad), you thrive in community, don’t neglect community.
In community we share the joys and sorrows of all.
In community we find relief from our suffering.

Responsorial Psalm
How great are the works of the Lord!

Sequence
At the cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful Mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.

Alleluia Verse
Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary;
without dying you won the Martyr’s crown
beneath the Cross of the Lord.

Gospel Portion
In todays gospel portion, we are invited to the family as sons and daughters of the Blessed Mother.

Jesus gives the invitation.
We give the yes.
Jesus calls us brother and sister in the most profound way.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry