Mary as an apostle of Jesus

Jun 26, 2014

By Margaret Boey
Twenty-eight members of the Marian Group from the Church of the Immaculate Conception attended a stay-in retreat at Stella Maris from June 14 to 15.

Fr Gerard Theraviam conducted the retreat based on the theme Called, Chosen and Sent which is in line with the Church’s theme for 2014. Citing Mary as our model and referring to the gospel text of The Annunciation, he explained how Mary was called and chosen by God to be His Mother. Using the text of the Visitation, Fr Gerard pointed out how Mary had gone out of her way to be of service to her cousin Elizabeth who, in her old age, was expecting a child. Mary herself was pregnant but that didn’t stop her from visiting her cousin who she felt needed someone to talk to. Likewise, we are called to imitate Mary in saying ‘yes’ whenever we are called to undertake a difficult task. Our ‘yes’ initially may be grudgingly given but our call is to be able to say it from the heart at the end.

The role of Mary as intercessor may have been overemphasized, thereby giving a wrong message to non Catholics. Very often, she is portrayed as someone to whom we turn to only when we need a favour. As members of the Marian group, we are invited to also portray Mary as a disciple. While we ask for her intercession as a Mother, we should not forget that Mary was first a disciple who listened attentively and then followed Him, even unto Calvary. Mary was also present at the first Pentecost and, like Mary said at the wedding at Cana, we as disciples, should also do what Jesus is telling us.

Fr Gerard very successfully made us see ourselves as being called, chosen and sent into the world. Using the Seven-Step method, he made us each immerse ourselves in the situation and personalize our experience of the gospel, thereby making the gospel come alive. Each one of us will be called and sent on different missions, perhaps beginning with our own families.

The highlight of the retreat was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. At the end of Mass we were sent out on mission, but not before being reminded that our ultimate call was to be servants of the world. Fr Gerard had earlier prayed for each one of us present to be strengthened and that we would not be afraid to be sent into the world. Interestingly, the phrase “Do not be afraid” appears in the Bible 365 times, sufficient for each day of the year.