Virgin Mary

In her 1956 book, Poor Clare Mother Francis contends that a good sense of humor is a necessary aspect of their unique vocation and shows this with an examination of the joys that come with a calling that seems radical to many.

Sometimes we can get caught up in the “doing” of Advent, even with best intentions, forgetting the truth that no practice we take on can come close to the power of God at work in our lives.

These efforts testify to the enduring importance of parishes formed by Black Catholic traditions and the richness they bring to the church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The small chapel just east of Rockville features an altar, tabernacle housing the Blessed Sacrament, statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and an image of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica. It was inspired by Father Mitchell Bechtold, pastor in the Five Star Area Catholic Community.

The statue depicts a pregnant Mary with the hope that it may help young couples facing a difficult situation to be comforted and seek guidance.

Mary’s Immaculate Conception offers a glimpse to the promised life for all Christians who open their hearts to God and his grace, Pope Francis said.

“We quickly realized we weren’t just praying for people in Lourdes, but for those in need worldwide — and this e-pilgrimage will honor their presence in a great affirmation of the power of prayer,” said the shrine’s vice rector.

The Virgin Mary is sitting with her son Jesus in a lush Alberta, Canada, forest, surrounded by deer drinking from a gurgling stream, with the majestic Three Sisters peaks in the background.