A Birthday Reflection on Our Mother – Sep 08 – Homily – Fr Terrance

In this heartfelt homily, Father reflects deeply on the Nativity of Our Lady, portraying her birth as a pivotal moment that ushered in hope and salvation for the world. He draws on the words of Pope St. John Paul II and Pope St. Paul VI, who described her arrival as the dawn preceding the light of salvation in Jesus Christ. Father paints a vivid picture of Mary's character, emphasizing her warmth, humility, and profound love for others, which made her a cherished companion and the perfect mother. Her ability to listen, comfort, and bring peace to hearts is highlighted as a testament to her purity and chastity, which only deepened her capacity to love. Father also shares a poignant testimony from a spiritual directee, who describes Our Lady's sorrow over the few who truly love her Son, and her unyielding mission to turn hearts back to Him. On this feast day, He urges us to seek a closer relationship with Mary, knowing that her influence will draw us nearer to Jesus and bring heaven closer to earth.

For Further Reading

Catholic Encyclopedia - Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Feast Day Overview - https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/10712b.htm
Franciscan Media - Saint of the Day: Nativity of Mary - Mary's Birth Celebration - https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/nativity-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary
Catechism of the Catholic Church #487 - Mary's Role in Salvation - Text: http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p122a3p2.htm#487
Catechism of the Catholic Church #963 - Mary's Motherly Role - Text: http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p123a9p6.htm#963
Catechism of the Catholic Church #971 - Devotion to Mary - Text: http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p123a9p6.htm#971
Catholic Answers - Mary's Role as Mother - Understanding Her Intercession - https://www.catholic.com/tract/mary-mother-of-god
Wikipedia - Nativity of Mary - Historical Background on Feast - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_of_the_Blessed_Virgin_Mary