June 10, 2019 Monday of the 10th Week of Ordinary Time-C THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF THE CHURCH

Genesis 3:9-15, 20

Psalm 87

John 19:25-34

“I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your offspring and hers…Gen. 3:15

“… behold your mother.”  John 19:27

Lord, Mary, the model of motherhood, was present at your incarnation and crucifixion.  She held you tenderly in the stable of Bethlehem and before the tomb on Calvary.  From start to finish she faithfully completed the will of the Father.  As St. Jerome said: “Death through Eve, life through Mary.”  She is the “new Eve” because her obedience to God’s will resolved Eve’s disobedience.   At the foot of the cross, with one of your last pain filled breathes, you gave your mother to us as our mother for eternity.  Giving her to us is a sign of hope that blessings on future generations have not been removed.  Redemption is possible.   Thank you, O Lord, for giving me a loving and caring mother for all time.  She is someone I can go to when in trouble.  I can ask her for help when I don’t want to go on anymore.  She will listen to all my worries, fears, hopes and prayers.  I entrust my children to her care as well.

“Mary, my mother, pray for us so that we can better follow your Son.  I love you and believe you will never turn your back on us your children.  Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us!” Amen