Monthly Reflection

Dear Friends,

Mother’s Day and other “holidays” aren’t always the joyous days they appear to be. For a mother who has lost a child, or for someone grieving the loss of their own mother, these days can carry quiet heaviness. If this is your experience, please know that you are not alone.

In moments like these, we could turn to Mary, the mother of Jesus, who understands both unconditional love and profound sorrow. She held her Son with great joy, and she also stood at the foot of the Cross in unimaginable grief. Because of this, she meets us with a mother’s compassion, especially on the days that feel the hardest.

There are gentle ways to draw close to her on these difficult days. You could pray the Rosary, allowing it to bring peace to your heart. You may choose to visit a Marian shrine like Our Lady of Consolation in Cary, Ohio, or simply sit quietly in your church, placing your grief in her care. Even a small act of kindness done in memory of your loved one can become a beautiful offering, an expression of love that continues. In these quiet gestures, their presence lives on, reflected in compassion, generosity, and care for others.

In all of this, the Memorare becomes a prayer we can rest in, a prayer of trust and surrender:

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Through this prayer, we entrust our grief to Mary, asking her to intercede for us and carry our hearts to her Son, Jesus – trusting that we are held, heard, and never alone.

With care,

Renee Weese

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