During a Recent Mass for Special Needs, We Hear the Gospel of Jesus Calling Out a Name. Hear Why That Is Important to All of Us!

During a Recent Mass for Special Needs, We Hear the Gospel of Jesus Calling Out a Name. Hear Why That Is Important to All of Us!

In today’s gathering, we begin with some opening remarks before delving into the Gospel, . . .

. . . which recounts the story of a thirsty Mary Magdalene. It’s intriguing how the Gospel sheds light on Mary’s yearning heart and her intense thirst for Our Lord. Typically, we don’t associate thirst with matters of the heart, and often, we don’t take time to contemplate this concept, leaving us uncertain of its true significance. However, this Homily, specially tailored for attendees with Special Needs, aims to elucidate the profound meaning behind this idea and its relevance to all of us.

Mary Magdalene serves as an inspiring example for each of us. On Easter morning, her heart longed so ardently for fulfillment that it couldn’t find complete joy until she encountered Our Lord. She cherished the Lord deeply and persistently sought Him until she finally reunited with Him. She refused to settle for anything less. But why did she possess such unwavering devotion? The Homily delves into this question, revealing its wisdom.

This story holds a valuable lesson for everyone—to discern in the depths of our hearts who and what is truly best for us. It urges us to recognize those who are genuinely good for us. Interestingly, even when Mary Magdalene saw Jesus, she initially didn’t recognize Him. Why? Because as much as she loved the Lord, as much as we love the Lord, He transcends all expectations. He desires her to comprehend this truth and conveys it by calling her name. This aspect bears significance for each one of us, and the Homily elaborates on its importance.

Let us grasp the essence of the Gospel: the profound significance when Jesus calls out a name. Discover why this holds importance for all of us. Listen to this Special Meditation Media.

Note to the listener of this Special Audio. 

The Homily revolves around the significance of Jesus addressing Mary Magdalene by her name, highlighting the personal nature of such interaction. It further explores how Jesus calls each of us by name, emphasizing the individual and intimate relationship with Him. After the Homily during the Mass, attendees were invited to inscribe the names of those in need of special prayers, including individuals with specific needs and their caregivers.

Each attendee wrote these names on the back of a cross, and they were later recited aloud and attached to Our Lady. During the communal recitation of the Hail Mary, the act symbolizes Our Lady’s recollection of the angel addressing her as “Hail Full of Grace.” As the community prays, Our Lady also joins in and intercedes for all the names offered to her, forwarding these prayers to God Our Father in Heaven.

Although the reading of the names during the original Mass lasted nearly 30 minutes, only a condensed version of about 60 seconds is presented in this audio. As you participate in the prayer, you are encouraged to visualize Our Lady using the images on the web page. Feel free to add the names of your loved ones whom you wish to pray for virtually and then join the community in collective prayer to Our Lady and God.

For more information about the events at the Shrine and to receive updates, please get in touch with the Shrine’s office. (link).

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