Of all the women I’ve known, my love for one would always be special, intense and burn like fire that can never be extinguished– the lady who has impacted not just mine but the lives of billions. She is the Immaculate Conception, Queen of Virgins, Mother of Perpetual Help, Queen of the Rosary, Queen of Heaven and Queen of all saints – she’s is the Blessed Virgin Mary on whom innumerable titles have been conferred in her honour. It is without a doubt the Lord’s desire that all humankind honour her. Happy birthday Mama ! And thank you for being a loving Mother to all those who look up to you for help and consolation especially during untoward situations.

Sadly, Mary’s role in Christian life is being overlooked by many. To such as those who do not recognize the crucial role played by Mary in pleading our case before the throne of God and in unceasingly praying for salvation of souls, here is the biblical verse that details an explicit command by Jesus. Please refer John 19: 26-27

When Jesus saw his mother,

and the disciple whom he loved standing near, 

he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 

Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” 

And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.  

Though at that moment, the verse was directed to John, God used the word ‘disciple’ hence the command of God is applicable to anyone who chooses to follow the Lord.

It is a pity that people to this very day blaspheme Our Lady and treat her as a mere vessel used by God thereby objecting to the supreme status she has been granted. Some even treat her with contempt. It is rather ridiculous that people accuse Catholics of worshiping her or treating her as some kind of Goddess, these are the ones who are badly misinformed. The Scriptures point out to the greatness of Mary as is seen in the Angel Gabriel’s salutation as ‘Hail Mary’, Mary too uttered these words “henceforth all generations will call me blessed” (Luke] :48) which is happening till date and will continue to be so.

Her womb became the first tabernacle God chose to rest, what greater glory can all of his creation have than this? And therefore, to bear the Lord, she was born without Original sin and made purest of all creatures. Is it not then only fitting to give her the honour that is due to her and seek her help to draw closer to God? At this present time of war and violence, we are all in need of a maternal love and Mary is forever there to lead us to God and bring us peace.