My Soul Proclaims The Greatness of the Lord...

On the traditional Church calendar, today is one of nine days dedicated to Mary under the title "Our Lady of Victory." This particular one commemorates the victory of Catholic forces over the invading Ottoman Turks in present-day Peterwardein, Hungary in the year 1716. The victory was stragetically important and led to the eventual re-conquest of Hungary from the Turks. The prayerful intersession of Mary to God was credited for the success and this day was dedicated to her honor.

So, what is it about Mary? Why are we Catholics so keen to honor her? Do other Christians do the same? Why or why not? Well, here's a hint: "From Mary we learn to surrender to God's will in all things. From Mary, we learn to trust even when all hope seems gone. From Mary, we learn to love Christ her son and the Son of God!" (Ven. Pope John Paul II).
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Good Cheer Tonight (7pm at The Library off the Square)- Fr. Joe will offer a Lenten reflection on "The Magnificat" (Lk 1:46-55). Do a little homework and look it up. Read it. Think about it. Ponder it. Live it. And then grab a frosty beverage tonight and discuss it! Bring a friend. Especially those who are always asking, "What's up with y'all Catholics worshiping Mary?" Bring that person.