Called to say “Yes”!

Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Reflection

Today on the Feast of the Presentation of Mary in the Temple we celebrate the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in communion with thousands of Presentation People and Friends of Nano around the world. This feast day story is not found in the Bible, but it helps us imagine the ways Mary prepared to respond to God’s call.  Through the prayers of  our novena this year, we have celebrated some women in the Hebrew scriptures whose life stories most likely informed Mary’s faith and helped her offer a courageous “Yes!” to God’s call.

Even as we celebrate Mary’s call to bring Christ to birth, we are mindful of the needs of all of creation for restoration to wholeness: people, living creatures, Earth, the entire natural universe. The injustices and sufferings on our planet can seem overwhelming. We need each other to bolster our sense of hope. We need to celebrate the stories of heroes like Nano Nagle and  Presentation People everywhere. These inspiring people boost our resilience in our efforts to share hospitality and persevere in justice work to restore right relationships in our world.

The angel went to Mary and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.” In a loud voice Elizabeth  exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!”  (Luke 1:28, 42).

In what ways is God calling you to deepen your commitment to Christ and say “Yes!” again today?

Our Closing Prayer for this Novena (21st November 2021)

Faithful God, you create us in your image and draw us ever closer to you through our vows, promises, and commitments. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and our foundress Venerable Nano Nagle, help us grow in communion with all Presentation People and Friends of Nano around the world as we courageously respond together to the needs of our times.

Bless the next generations of Presentation People and Friends of Nano with inspiration to rejoice in your call to say “Yes!” as Mary and Nano did. Be with us in our joy today as we celebrate our connections with the global Presentation family on this Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Amen.

Presentation Day Blessings to each and all!

For access to all of the Novena Prayers see: Our Presentation Day Novena – Presentation Sisters Union North East Ireland (presentationsistersne.ie)