Pilgrims around the world have availed themselves of the blessings garnered by meditating on the Our Mother of Perpetual Help icon. I am always inspired by “The Memorae” which teaches us referring to The Blessed Mother: “never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided.” Personally, I have witnessed several hopeless events turn themselves around after I spent time in devotions to The Blessed Mother, in whatever form they manifested, whether through gazing at the icon,praying, or visiting “La Virgin of Lujan” in a cathedral in my hometown in Argentina- always the comfort and courage I sought was showered upon me.
The Blessed Mother is a source of love, protection and comfort to all.
In studying the icon, you will be ineffably drawn to the beautiful, gentle visage of Mary. To gaze into her merciful eyes helps us connect with God’s presence and compassion.
Cyrus of Alexandria wrote: “Mary, Mother of God, we salute you precious vessel worthy of the whole world’s reverence, you are an ever-shining light, the crown of virginity, the symbol of orthodoxy and indestructible temple, the place that held him whom no place can contain, mother, virgin. Who can put Mary’s high honor into words? She is both mother and virgin. I am overwhelmed by the wonder of this miracle.”
Mary’s lovingkindness and mercy irresistibly invite the motherless and destitute, the bankrupt soul into the heart of love.
I count myself among the motherless since I lack an earthly mother. My mother is deceased, but even when living, her detachment caused me great emotional turmoil, therefore Mary has and always will be my role model and consolation. I know she intercedes for my deceased mother and my loved ones. She is filled with all the qualities of charity, mercy and love. She is the Ark of the Covenant, mother-virgin, our comfort in knowing she encourages us to be holy.
On Mother’s Day, I will light a candle for my deceased mother and offer memorial prayers for her soul, but I will honor The Blessed Mother, and lift my heart in gratitude for her preciousness.
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