The whole earth is full of her glory, especially among Christians, by whom she is taken as the protector of many kingdoms, provinces, dioceses, and cities. Many cathedrals are consecrated to God under her name. There is not a church without an altar in her honor, not a country nor a canton where there are not some miraculous images of her.
Of Mary, there is never enough!
Excerpt from A Year With Mary
Over Memorial Day weekend I finally planted my Mary Garden! I wanted to share some pictures with some of my favorite quotes, prayers, and thoughts about our Blessed Mother. Enjoy!
The flowers I planted:
1. Marigold- The story is that thieves accosted the Holy Family on the way into Egypt. Mary gave them her purse. When the thieves opened it, marigolds, rather than money, poured out. (The Catholic Catalogue)
2. Lilies- These are associated with the annunciation. Legend has it that the angel Gabriel was holding a lily when he approached Mary with the news that she was to bear the Savior. (The Catholic Catalogue)
3. Petunias- these flowers sing praises to Our Lady
Abandon yourself into the hands of Mary. She will take care of you. -Padre Pio
In 15 minutes or so, I created for myself a peaceful oasis. Small, simple, humble, but radiating God’s beauty- just as Mary did in her life.
All my own perceptions of beauty both in majesty and simplicity are founded upon Our Lady. -J.R.R Tolkien
Being able to honor Mary in this simple way brings so much joy to my heart. May she watch over my family, guiding us all to her Son.
As mariners are guided to the port by the shining of a star, so Christians are guided to heaven by Mary. -St. Thomas Aquinas
Your lives must be like mine: quiet and hidden in unceasing union with God…
Mary to St. Faustina
This particular statue of her reminds me of her gentle and humble nature. May I always abandon my desire for worldly greatness and humble myself for the greater glory of her Son.
Mary is my Instructress, who is ever teaching me how to live for God. My spirit brightens up in Your gentleness and Your humility, O Mary.
St. Faustina (620)
Our faith is filled with the true, the good, and the beautiful. This is a great example of leading with the beautiful and it has the opportunity to “speak” to all that pass by in a subtle, beautiful way.