Pope Francis has instituted a new obligatory Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, into the General Roman Calendar. This memorial is celebrated every year on the Monday after Pentecost. The Memorial was given its own set of prayers and scripture readings. Honoring Mary as mother of the church on the day after Pentecost highlights for Catholics that Mary was present with the disciples on Pentecost, praying with them as the Holy Spirit descended. From the awaiting of the Spirit at Pentecost, Mary has never ceased to take motherly care of the pilgrim church on earth. In a church filled with flawed people and leaders who are abusive or neglectful we need Mary’s unconditional maternal love, calling us to spiritual growth.
JUNE102019
By Church Staff
