The Dominican Sisters of Mary - Manual for Marian Devotion

W hoever humbles himself will be exalted (Mt 23:12). This statement from our Lord is most perfectly fulfilled in the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother. By a singular gift of Gods grace, no person was ever so meek, humble, or grace-filled as the Blessed Virgin. Yet because of this, God has exalted her to a position of unique privilege and influence unparalleled in salvation history. This book focuses on several aspects of Marys special role in Christian life.

First, as an exemplary role model for every Christian. Mary conformed her life to Jesus Christ more perfectly than any other human being who has ever lived; because of this, she is the perfect role model for Christians to imitate in our efforts to be like the Lord. Every Christian should strive to be a true child of Mary in this regard.

Second, as a powerful intercessor before the throne of God. Due to the fullness of grace she possesses, Mary has traditionally been invoked as the most powerful intercessor among all the saints. So precious are her prayers in the sight of God that the Church sees her as mediatrix of Gods graces to the Church. Christians should feel unbounded confidence when they come to Mary in need.

Third, as a type of the Church. All the gifts of grace have been entrusted to the Church collectively, and the fullness of grace has been poured out on Mary personally. Mary and the Church thus become types of one another, the mystery of the Blessed Virgin shedding light upon the mystery the Church and vice versa. Christians can grow in their understanding of the Church by contemplating Mary.

The first part of this book lays out the biblical, theological, and historical foundations for the Churchs devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The second part offers aids for this devotion: Church documents, scriptural texts, words and anecdotes from the saints and popes, prayers and hymns, and resources for further study.

The primary purpose of this manual, then, is to provide Catholics with a basic framework for understanding the Churchs veneration of Mary and fostering it in their own devotional lives. It is an appropriate introduction to the basics of Mariology and a rich resource of devotional material to nourish your private devotions to the Mother of God.

It is our hope that Catholicsand anyone interested in Marian devotionwill carry this book with them and make frequent use of it, especially in Holy Hours or devotional times. For this reason, this book has been provided in a sturdy, compact edition that allows you to keep it handy and refer to it often.

As you grow in devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, we encourage you to heed the words she once gave to the servants at the wedding of Cana: Do whatever He tells you (Jn 2:5). Mary is the surest route to Christ, as attested by countless saints. May your path to Christ be blessed as you travel under the mantle of Our Lady.

The Editor