My Patroness(es) - 2 of 3

This is a continuation of a series started in April highlighting three important patronesses in my life. Check out the first here.

My second:

(do note that these are in no particular order...)

Our Lady of Guadalupe.

(Mosaic at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception)

 

I've always had a special place in my heart for Our Lady of Guadalupe, whether I realized it or not. Early on in my childhood I didn't understand Marian devotion. Partly because I had seen so many concentrate so much on her, and rarely even speak of Christ. Yes, Mary is the Mother of God... but they rarely mentioned the Son whom she was the mother of. I didn't get it. And I didn't realize this influence in my life until I watched a series of videos my cousin posted. She traveled California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico, interviewing Latino women on the influence of Our Lady of Guadalupe in their lives. (Check it out here.) I came to realize Our Lady's impact on me and my view of Marian devotion when one woman said she loved Our Lady, would do anything for her, but didn't believe Christ was the savior. What? That simply didn't make sense. Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Blessed Virgin Mary, is the Mother of God, and believing in her message should lead to a deep love and belief in Christ and the Church.

 

 One of my favorite paintings of the image, painted by a local artist and given to me by my own mother.

Last summer, I taught Totus Tuus. At our first team meeting, we sat trying to think of a patron saint for our team. Initially, I couldn't think of anyone. Then Our Lady of Guadalupe popped in my head. I hesitated though. I didn't say it. But someone else did. I don't remember who, but we picked Our Lady. And she followed us... all summer. Every single parish, and even some of our host homes, had a picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She watched over us, leading us ever closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. She continues to watch over me today.

“Am I not here, I, who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not the source of your joy? Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, in the crossing of my arms? Do you need anything more? Let nothing else worry you, disturb you .” -Our Lady of Guadalupe to San Juan Diego


Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.
Patroness of the Americas, pray for us.
Patroness of the Unborn, pray for us.



In Christ through Mary.

My Patroness(es) - 1 of 3

This is the first in a series of three posts on some important women in my life--my three patronesses. Each will contain a picture I've taken pertaining to her, followed by a personal story, ending with a quote from her.

First up:

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

(Statue at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception)

Mother Teresa was (is) my confirmation saint. At the time, I was running from God and wanted to pick a saint who was married and had children--I desperately wanted a husband and children. None of the wonderful, married saints were standing out to me though. I read through a majority of "Lives of the Saints"... volumes 1 and 2. But nothing was standing out. I had always loved Mother Teresa and her love and compassion for Christ and others. So, I cut a deal with God. ...I know, not the smartest thing to do. But I did. I said that either I would take Mother Teresa if I could, otherwise a married saint. I was told I could take her, since she had been declared "Blessed." Still not 100% sure if that was accurate, but I did it. I took Mother Teresa as my patroness. Reading her writings and knowing she's praying for me is so comforting and encouraging.


Whenever Jesus asks something of you, say "yes."


Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, pray for us.



In Christ through Mary.

Mary, Our Mother, Pray for Us

Continuation of the March for Life trip.

After a day of seeing the sites, A. and I met up with another BC friend and we took the metro to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. First we went to the crypt and found seats for Mass. As I walked around with my camera, I prayed and took in the beauty of the Basilica. As I walked around, I knew my camera would not be able to capture the fullness of it all.

There were many side chapels and alcoves with statues, mosaics, and paintings of Our Mother. It was so beautiful to see. Below are my favorite shots relating to Our Lady.