Here we are at the beginning of Mary Ward Week 2021! Today we celebrate the birth day of Mary Ward, foundress of the Congregation of Jesus and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is a very happy day and this year we have so much to celebrate as we contemplate union between our two branches.
To begin this week well, I am sharing our reflection booklet and the YouTube video of the Mass from Loretto Abbey chapel in Toronto, celebrated for Mary Ward. Please join us in prayer.
And our prayer for this week:
O God, you gifted our founder Mary Ward with vision and courage.
Support all those whose vision and gifts further the work
of bringing this world to fullness of life
especially in their times of trial.
Give us courage to work for the coming of your reign in our hearts.
Knowing the work we do is yours to accomplish,
let us never be discouraged.
We thank you for all those who have gone before us
and who have persevered in spite of difficulties and adversity.
We ask them to intercede for us.
Grant this through Jesus
who is our way, our truth, and our life.
Amen.
Mary Ward, pray for us and give us your spirit!
Love, the driving force: a journey of discernment 