He has done great things for me

During the month of August, Vincentians celebrate two feasts of our patroness, the Blessed Virgin Mary. First we celebrate the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Here we reflect on the mystery that at the end of her natural life, Mary was taken into heaven, uncorrupted, body and soul. A week later, we celebrate the feast the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of heaven and earth.

During her entire life Mary took no credit for anything. Instead, she points to what God has done for her. This is what she said to her cousin Elizabeth during her visit. “The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His Name” (Luke 1:49).

It calls us to devote our lives to being, like Mary, a willing and humble servant of God. We are called to be God's servants in the world, serving others as a reflection and extension of God's kingdom. Mary's song stirs in me a desire to live today for what really matters, so that God might use me for his purposes and glory.

This year I plan to attend the profession of vows of a young woman who will dedicate her life to serving the people of God. It is on the feast of the Queenship of Mary. This young woman offers her life to Christ. She becomes his bride and wears a wedding ring. Through her life, she proclaims the greatness of the Lord.

Every evening, millions of people in the church pray the Magnificat prayer, the words that Mary said to Elizabeth. I am one of them. Every time I pray it, I remember what God has done in my life that very day.

God wants us to serve with humility and simplicity. May God send many to offer their lives to serve as priests, deacons and women religious. May He send more to serve the poor with us. May we proclaim the greatness of God and his love in our lives.

Deacon John Girolami DTS
SSVP Spiritual Advisor ONRC