Betty Colaneri, National Vice-President, May 15, 2024
FOR: Provincial Vice-Presidents
“For, God has committed to Mary the treasury of all good things,
in order that everyone may know that through her are obtained every hope, every grace,
and all salvation. For this is His will, that we obtain everything through Mary.”
(Pope Pius IX)
My dear sisters in the League,
This month, the catchphrase for the promotion of the “1” Campaign is:
“1 Mother for All, Mary”
May is the “Month of Mary” and the perfect month to honour mothers. Mary is the “1” perfect role model for everyone, especially women. She is often referred to as the patroness of any good activity and the patroness of all humanity. Chosen by God, she has a special role in the history of salvation, where she was constantly seen by her son’s side during his mission on earth.
Mary joined fully in the sacrifice of Jesus by her ‘yes’ to the acceptance of Christ into her womb, her offering of her son to God at the temple, her urging him to perform his first miracle, and her standing at the foot of the cross. Who can forget the famous sculpture by Michelangelo that captured her sixth sorrow called “The Madonna della Pietà” or “La Pietà” that tugs on the heartstrings? She teaches Catholics of the profound love of a mother and the strong bond of a mother and son. In Mary’s Way of the Cross, she shows the immense courage it took for her to be with Jesus. It also demonstrates that even though she was full of sorrow, she had the strength to be with her son as he suffered because she knew it had to be. Another trait Mother Mary teaches is compassion. No one wants to see their loved one suffer, but they can pray to Mother Mary to give them the strength to be with their loved one so they do not suffer alone.
No matter how many different images or names of Mother Mary from many places worldwide, there is only “1” Mother Mary for us all.
As our mother and guide, Mary, the favoured “1”, gave members the best advice to follow from Jesus’ first miracle—“Do whatever he tells you.”
When I reflect on Mother Mary, the source of members’ comfort, the song “Let It Be” by The Beatles comes to mind:
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom
Let it be.
Be “1” with Our Lady to show compassion and hope for others.
May Our Lady of Good Counsel bless you.
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Colaneri
National Vice-President