Overview:

The Memorial of The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

A Reflection for the Memorial of The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word.” (Lk 1:38)

Find today’s readings here.

When I saw that today’s Scripture readings included passages for the Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, I was thrilled, as my devotion to Mary has blossomed over the past few years. Today’s feast is celebrated eight days after the solemnity of the Assumption, and it honors Mary as queen of heaven and earth. 

As a Catholic convert, my relationship with saints, including Mary, didn’t develop until I was able to join pilgrimages to Knock Shrine in Ireland and Lourdes in France. I always knew of Mary as a humble virgin who gave birth to Jesus, but those pilgrimages nurtured a meaningful devotion to Our Lady that has shaped my faith life since.  

I have shared my devotion to Mary, and I have dear friends who send pictures of Mary from churches and shrines around the world. On my desk at home, I have a quote from St. Teresa of Kolkata which says, “To walk in the footsteps of Mary is to do small things with great love.” This helps guide my days. Throughout her entire life, and most especially when Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word,” she did things both big and small with love. It inspires me.

Mary’s deep unswerving faith, her obedience to God, her love and her humility are all virtues I strive for on a daily basis. Just as Mary’s faith was tested, my faith is tested when my prayers aren’t answered or I am bombarded with news of war, discrimination and unjust acts. Do I humbly respond with an open heart, deeper faith and humility? Spoiler alert: Probably not. 

I could work harder to do small things with great love. Perhaps listening to a friend who is going through a difficult time; spending more time in quiet, contemplative prayer; having patience for a co-worker or family member; or providing food and clothing for the poor.  

As we celebrate Mary as the queen of heaven and earth, I invite you to continue to pray for her to intercede for you and me as we all strive to do small things with great love.

Heather is America’s executive vice president.