Hello and happy feast.

Today we remember the time that the Angel Gaberiel appeared to Mary to inform her that she had been chosen by God to be the Mother of his Divine Son.

And to keep in mind, that nine months from today is Christmas. Just thought you would like to know.

If our story of salvation had opening lines, it might be, “Once upon a time . . . ” It is in that eternal YES that Mary spoke that the entire mystery of God’s love began. It was a yes for all eternity. Mary had no idea what that yes would entail, or where it would take her. Surly, she had no idea that it would take her up that hill outside the gates of Jerusalem known as “the place of the skull” where those condemned to death for crimes against the Roman Empire were crucified.

Many years ago in the year 1531 our Lady appeared to Juan Diego, a local Indian man. The place the apparition took place is known as Tepeyac Hill. Mary told Juan that day, “Listen, and let it penetrate you heart, my dear little son; do not be troubled or weighted down with grief. Do not fear any illness or vexation or anxiety or pain. Am I not here who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not your fountain of life? In the crossing of my arms? Is there anything else to you need?”
(Mary to St. Juan Diego)

I may guess that like most of us, Mary may have had a plan to the days she would share with her husband, Joseph. But as most of may have come to know, those plans may be far from the ones God has in mind for us.

As we celebrate this great feast just before Easter, let us keep in mind that all this is intertwined and part of the story of God’s plan of salvation.

Let us allow God to work His miracles in our lives.

Peace and All Good,

Fr. Vinnie, fcm and the

Bros and Srs of the

Franciscan House of Prayer.