Journal of Sacred Work

  "In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart. And that you may obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps. With her for guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her, you shall never lose heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have nothing to fear; if she walks before you, you shall not grow weary; if she shows you favor, you shall reach the goal."  - Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

For my grandmother Katy, the Blessed Mary was always close and she called upon her to intercede in times of need. She knew she could count on Mary. She prayed her prayers and the rosary, faithfully and one by one the answers came. Grandma’s expressed love for Mary, resonated with my mom and she passed on her love of the Blessed Mother to her children. As a meditative practice, praying the rosary offers a peace that surpasses understanding.

This Christmas, I received a special gift, a pendant with an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Her image rests upon my heart. She emanates an unconditional Love that connects me to the love of my mother and that of my grandmother.

Through the ages, apparitions of The Divine Mother have manifested in different parts of the world. Our Lady of Guadalupe “Lady from Heaven” appeared to Juan Diego, a Native American man at Tepeyac, Mexico in 1531. Her message was one of love and compassion and a universal promise of help and protection for all humankind.

When Mary first appeared to Juan she told him to build a chapel. Juan shared his vision with the Bishop who was not convinced and wanted a sign as proof.  Once again the Blessed Mother appeared to Juan Diego and directed him to bring the Bishop a bouquet of roses. So Juan gathered the flowers in his tilma (cloak) and returned to visit the Bishop. As he opened his tilma the flowers all fell to the floor and a beautiful image of the Blessed Mother was etched into the rough cactus fibers of the cloak.

Miraculously Mary's image has not faded in over 475 years. Interestingly, depending on where you stand her skin tones change, similar to how the feathers of a hummingbird can change color. At one angle she appears Native American and at another of European ancestry. Another fascinating point to ponder is how the majestic stars on her outer garment are aligned precisely with the night sky constellations.

There are many doors but they all lead to the One truth of unconditional love. Mary offers us a beautiful gateway to heaven.

Contributed by Liz Sorensen Wessel