When Marists look to Mary they always see her as a person, an individual in relationship with God the Father, with her Son, Jesus, and with the Holy Spirit, as well as in relationship with the Church and with the contemporary world.

Stabat Mater
Is there one who would not weep,
Whelmed in miseries so deep,
Christ’s dear Mother to behold?

The Gospels allow us to look at how Mary’s presence provided comfort and support to the apostles. For catechists, Mary’s presence is expressed by putting people before you. Supporting others by giving them the knowledge, strength and wisdom to help others build their relationship with God … This will build a community of believers with “one mind and one heart.”

Stabat Mater
Christ above in torment hangs,
She beneath beholds the pangs,
Of her dying glorious Son.

As disciple, Mary heard and welcomed the Word, pondered it, searched its meaning for her life, and then acted on it.

Stabat Mater
O how sad and sore distressed
Was that Mother, highly blest
Of the sole-begotten One.

Marists look to Mary as the first and best disciple of Jesus. As disciple, the focus of her attention was away from herself and always on Jesus.

Stabat Mater
Through her heart, his sorrow sharing,
All his bitter anguish bearing,
Now at length the sword has passed.