Mary our Good Mother

As Americans honor their mothers today, we might reflect on Mary our Good Mother, who is the model for all mothers.  St. Marcellin had a trusting, loving relationship with Mary, the Mother of God, having learned to love her from his own mother, Marie-Therese Chirat, and his aunt, who was a Sister of St. Joseph forced to live in hiding with the family because of the Revolution.  Devotion to Mary was prevalent in the Loire valley and southern France, so it's no surprise that St. Marcellin should also be a devotee of Mary.  He approached her as a grown son to his mother, with respect and great trust, following her trusting and faith-filled "Be it done unto me" (Fiat).  He never doubted in her care, and attributed the growth of his little group to it.  He could speak boldly to her, saying in a prayer he composed, that if vocations did not come, it would be her fault, for it was her congregation.  They came.
Yesterday as we celebrated the 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima, we were reminded that her loving care continues to this day, advising us and reminding us to live life focused on her Son.  Indeed, all Marists offer everything to Jesus through her.  St. Marcellin loved to refer to her as our Good Mother.  For all who she is and for all she has done and is doing, can we not do the same?
Mary, our Good Mother, pray for us.
Happy Mother's Day to all mothers!
Bro. Rene