It is only when we can begin to live for others—a truly worthy goal for any of us during Lent—that we have any hope of growing into the people of charity and prayer that God calls us to be.

This feast also invites us to reflect how the vocation of the Apostles—to tell the story of Jesus—witnesses to the great truth of Christmas.

We are being asked to trust that God has kept—and continues to keep—the promises made to our spiritual ancestors so many centuries ago.

Inspired by Mary’s commitment and faith, each of us is invited to pray for the courage and faith to continue along the paths God has chosen for us.

This Memorial is an opportunity for us to reflect on our own place within the unfolding story of salvation and to become more mindful on the impact of our decisions, our failings, and our faith for those who will come after us.

Mary and Elizabeth had experienced God’s miraculous intervention in their lives in ways that left them permanently changed and, ultimately, transformed history.

Mary’s humble acceptance speaks to us of the readiness to accept God’s will, in whatever way it is manifested.