HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR MARY

Catholics all over the world celebrate the birthday of Mary, the Mother of Christ, on September 8th. It seems to me that today is a good time to dispel a few myths about Mary and the way Catholics behold her. Catholics do not worship her despite the centuries old rabid rumours to the contrary. It's true that they love her but they know that her Son Jesus is the one they worship and obey - together with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. They see Mary as quite a bit more than the beautiful lady in the blue and white robes, lovely long hair, smooth skin, a kind face etc. Catholics recognise Mary as the young girl who was asked by the Archangel Gabriel to be the Mother of God. This spotless maid saw the suffering she would endure but said Yes" in a flash, hence "Be it done unto me according to Thy Word." Imagine the awe at having to raise a child such as Jesus. Imagine bearing the barbs of those who whispered "Fiddle de de" when confronted with the truth that this was a Conception by the power of the Holy Spirit. In this, the strength of St.Joseph is seen. How many men would have accepted the Virgin birth theory? How many would have endured the flight into Egypt?
Can any of us, Catholic or otherwise, come close to imagining the agony and the strength of soul she showed when confronted with the suffering of her Son? The scourging at the pillar, the crowning with thorns, that agonising walk to Calvary, the sound of the nails, that one last caress when Jesus was taken from the Cross. I don't think so. Mary kept to the background all her life yet she remains the most the most well known and loved woman in history - through humility and obedience. No wonder Catholics love her. Happy Birthday Mary.