As we embark on a new year, we are reminded of a profound truth that sets the tone for our journey ahead: January is not just the beginning of the calendar year, but also the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. This feast day, also known as Theotokos in Greek, honors Mary as the Mother of God_ a title that reflects her unique role in salvation history as the Mother of Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity.
Mary’s role as the Mother of God invites us to deeper reflection. She is not divine, and we do not worship her. Instead, we give her the honor she deserves as the one God chose to bring His Son into the world. This honor is called hyperdulia. A special veneration was distinct from our worship of God alone.
How do we Honor Mother Mary?
We honor Mother Mary by following her example and obeying her request to draw closer to her son. Mary’s consistent call throughout history has been to pray the Holy Rosary, a powerful spiritual practice that leads us to contemplate the mysteries of Christ’s life. In addition to the rosary, we can pray novenas and other Marian prayers, always seeking for her intercession as our heavenly mother.
To begin this year with Mary’s guidance, let us use the acronym MOTHER OF GOD to frame our prayer and intentions:
• M - Mama Mary, you are indeed our Mother.
• O - You obeyed God. Help us to obey His will.
• T - You trusted Him. Let us trust God in our little ways.
• H - Help us to humble ourselves and emulate your example.
• E - Help us to be righteous and religious.
• R - Reopen our hearts and minds.
• O - Forgive us our sins, O Lord.
• F - Give us the grace to be generous to one another.
• G - Guide us to offer help, not only to save bodies but also souls.
• O - Open our hearts in honor of Mama Mary.
• D - Deepen and revitalize our faith. Amen.
A New Year with Renewed Faith
As we enter the New Year, let us entrust our journey to the intercession of Mary, the Mother of God. By honoring her and by following her example of obedience, humility, and trust, we draw closer to Jesus, the source of all nourishment for both body and soul. may this year be a time of deepened faith, generosity, and renewed commitment to God's will.
Let us begin this new chapter with hearts open to God's grace, inspired by the loving guidance of Mary, our spiritual mother.
Happy New Year, and may God's blessings fill your days ahead.
Ms. Cherry, Acronym Lady
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