Fifth Sunday of Easter
Dear Parishioners,
On May 16th after our 4:00 p.m. livestreaming Mass we will have May crowning. This will also be a livestreaming event. May has been dedicated to Mary since the eighteenth century. The first place that the month of May was dedicated to Mary was in Rome, but the practice quickly spread. Belgium was one of the first places that had specific devotions to Mary starting in 1803. Since Sacred Heart started as a Belgium ethnic parish this is important to remember.
The faithful have turned to Mary our Mother throughout the centuries when there have been natural disasters or there have been wars. Many favors have been attributed to her intercession. It seems appropriate in the present crisis to ask Mary to intercede for us.
We also remember that we celebrate Mother’s Day today, May 10th. Mother’s Day and honoring Mary seem to naturally blend. Most mothers are remembered fondly by their children. I remember my mother and all the important lessons that she taught me about spirituality and care for the less fortunate. She certainly was the first person to nurture me in the faith. I also remember that she died on May 10th. That will make the day even more poignant.
Let us pray for all mothers throughout the month. We remember those mothers who are struggling to protect their children during the ongoing pandemic, especially those who are refugees. May the example of Mary the Mother of God strengthen them and strengthen us all.
Fr. Mark