~ Solemnity Our Lady Help of Christians ~

In every moment of her life, Mary modelled for us how to hear the word of God and put it into practice.  Her continual ‘Fiat!’ – ‘Your Will be done’ – provides such a powerful example of how the utter fullness of God is found in her and radiates from her. Her powerful presence, prayers and intercession is recognised in today’s solemnity, Our Lady Help of Christians, which provides a ray of light through which to ponder her love.

The title ‘Our Lady Help of Christians’ reflects an inspirational and prophetic choice by the First Provincial Synod of Australia since Mary’s life as the first disciple of Jesus is inclusive of all. Today, may all Christians in this Great South Land of the Holy Spirit call upon the intercession and love of Mary to bring about peace, justice and compassion upon all who live here. May Mary’s motherly love and practical examples of service recorded in the Gospels change our hearts and lead us to follow Jesus more closely by hearing and putting the word of God into action.

As a new government is formed to lead our nation, let us pray in the words of today’s Opening Prayer:

Almighty ever-living God, who placed the love of Our Lady Help of Christians in the hearts of those who brought the Catholic faith to these shores, grant, through her intercession, wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens so that, under her protection Australia may know harmony, justice and peace. Amen.

By Margaret O’Shea