Our Lady and Us

Nore:  Computer Updates have interfered with our May 13th slice of bread, which will now appear on the 14th.
On May 13th 1917 (98 years ago), three little children had a visit from a beautiful woman while tending their sheep outside the little village of Fatima. Six months later, in October, the spectacular sign, the swirling, dancing sun, was witnessed by 70,000 people.  It was a sign to confirm the messages the woman had been giving to the children on the 13th of each month since May. The War to End All Wars, ended the next year, but a world war, as predicted, began in 1939.  That war ended and the new "enemy" The USSR, plagued the world until, as predicted, it mysteriously "fell" in 1991.
The Mother of  God went to great pains to make her message of prayer, especially the rosary, and of penance known and followed, but 98 years later, it still falls on deaf ears.
34 years ago, Pope John Paul II, was the victim of an assassin's bullet, which logged in his chest just centimeters away from his heart.  He credited his escape from death to Our Lady of Fatima and made a pilgrimage there to thank her and leave the bullet as a reminder of Mary's loving protection.
St. Marcellin dedicated his dream, his congregation, and its mission " to make Jesus known and loved," to Mary.  As Marists, we are custodians and instruments of Mary's greatest wish, that her SON be known, loved and followed and, without the benefit of spectacular miracles, we quietly adhere to and spread the same message she gave the three children.  As she protected St. John Paul II, she protects us and helps us, as he did, to witness to the presence of Jesus, remain faithful to prayer and sacrifice, and do all we can to bring others to a knowledge and love of him..
Bro. Rene