Short Homily: Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

Theme: Mary, Our Mother in the Journey of Hope

Readings:

• Genesis 3:9–15, 20

• Psalm 87:1–2, 3 and 5, 6–7

• John 19:25–34

😄 Introduction

I once asked a young altar server who the Mother of the Church was. Without blinking, he said, “Our parish secretary – because she knows everything, she’s always present, and everyone reports to her!” While that’s not quite doctrinally correct, it does show how instinctively we associate motherhood with wisdom, strength, and presence — exactly the role Mary plays for the whole Church.

📖 The Word of God

In today’s Gospel, at the foot of the Cross, Jesus does something profound and personal. He gives Mary to the beloved disciple — and through him, to all of us. “Behold your mother.” In that painful moment, Jesus is forming a new family — the Church — and giving her a Mother.

Genesis reminds us of Eve, the “mother of all the living.” But Mary, the New Eve, becomes the Mother of all the redeemed. She stood at the foot of the Cross in silence, prayer, and suffering — the model for the Church during crisis and glory.

John 19 also tells us that from Jesus’ side flowed blood and water — signs of birth, baptism, and Eucharist. The Church was born from the side of Christ, and Mary stood there in witness. She’s not a passive observer; she is deeply involved in our redemption story.

✝️ Eucharist

At every Eucharist, we not only remember the Lord’s sacrifice — we are also united with Mary, the first believer, who gave her whole life to God’s plan. She continues to accompany us, as a mother does: feeding us, nurturing our faith, and reminding us, “Do whatever He tells you.”

❓ Question for Reflection

Do I allow Mary to guide me as a spiritual mother? In my moments of doubt or fear, do I draw close to her — who stood firm at the Cross?

🧭 Daily Practical Application

Today, find a quiet moment to pray the Hail Mary slowly, attentively. Reflect on her courage, her presence at the Cross, and her love for the Church. If you can, offer a kind gesture to someone who feels abandoned — as Mary never left the side of the suffering.

🛠️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

To those struggling with grief, pain, or anxiety — Mary is not distant. She knows what it means to suffer, to lose, to wait. Take her hand spiritually and let her accompany you, as she did for the disciples in the Upper Room at Pentecost.

🎉 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Make this Jubilee Year a Marian year for yourself. Visit a Marian shrine like Ngome or Kevelaer. Start a small Marian devotion with friends or youth. Mary builds unity and peace — something South Africa sorely needs.

🔥 Inspiration

Mary teaches us that hope does not disappoint. Even at the Cross, she stood. Even in silence, she believed.

🇿🇦 South African Touch

Just like many South African mothers lead families through hardship with grace and strength, so too does Mary lead us through spiritual struggle. She is the gog’ of heaven, wise, firm, and filled with love.

💬 Inspirational Quote

"To Jesus through Mary, and to hope through her witness."

🙏 Conclusion: Short Prayer

Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us. In your arms we find comfort. In your example, we find courage. In your faith, we find hope. Walk with us as we journey through this Jubilee Year. Amen.