HOMILY OF THE 10TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY OF THE 10TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF THE CHURCH
BY: Fr. Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
Gen 3:9-15, 20 (Acts 1:12-14); Psalm 86(87); John 19:25-34
Introduction
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
In 2018, Pope Francis established the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, to be observed annually on the Monday after Pentecost. All of the readings for this memorial are proper.
The Catholic Church honors Mary with many titles, and one of her most special is “Mother of the Church.” This title signifies that Mary is not only the Mother of Jesus but also the Mother of all who follow Him. Jesus gave Mary to us as our spiritual mother to guide, protect, and pray for us.
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Why the Title “Mother of the Church”?
The title “Mother of the Church” has deep roots in the Bible. At the foot of the Cross, Jesus said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son,” and to the disciple John, “Behold your mother” (John 19:26-27). Many believe that John represents all of us. In this profound moment, Jesus was giving Mary to the Church as a mother.
Why Is This Feast Celebrated Immediately After Pentecost?
This feast is celebrated immediately after Pentecost because Mary was with the first Christians during that pivotal event. After Jesus rose from the dead and returned to heaven, Mary prayed with the apostles as they waited for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:14). This demonstrates Mary’s special place in the Church from its very beginning.
What Is the Church Teaching Us on This Day?
On this day, the Church teaches us that Mary’s role as our mother stems from her “yes” to God. When she said yes to becoming the mother of Jesus, she also said yes to being part of God’s plan for all people. Mary’s boundless love and care for the Church flow directly from her deep love for Jesus.
What Are We Reminded Of on This Day?
Calling Mary the “Mother of the Church” reminds us that we are all part of God’s family. Mary helps us follow Jesus more closely. She is always praying for us and leading us to her Son. Catholics honor her because she guides us to live as true followers of Christ.
Mary’s role also reminds us that we are part of God’s family. She is our spiritual mother, helping us follow Jesus and love one another. Catholics honor her because she shows us how to trust God and live with faith.
How Do We Honor the Blessed Virgin Mary in Our Lives Today?
As Catholics, we honor Mary as the Mother of the Church in many ways. Prayer is one of the most important. Many Catholics ask for Mary’s intercession when they pray. We believe she listens and brings our prayers to Jesus.
The Recitation of the Holy Rosary
The recitation of the Holy Rosary is one of the most popular ways to honor Mary on this day. It helps us reflect on the life of Jesus and the crucial role Mary played in it. While reciting the Rosary, we meditate on key moments in Jesus’ life, such as His birth, death, and resurrection. Mary is always present in these mysteries.
What Do We Learn from the Life of Mary in General?
Mary’s life also shows us how to live with humility and faith. When the angel told her she would be the mother of Jesus, she said yes without hesitation. She didn’t know everything that would happen, but she trusted God completely. Her example teaches us to trust God even when life is uncertain.
Conclusion
As we honor Mary today, let us remember and contemplate her prayers for us. Just as she prayed with the apostles at Pentecost, she prays for the Church now. She wants us to stay strong in our faith and love one another. Mary’s loving care reminds us that we are never alone in our journey of faith.
Mary, Mother of the Church, always intercede for your Church and pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
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