The humble soul is blessed. The Lord loves her. The Mother of God is higher than all in humility, and therefore all races bless her on earth, while the heavenly powers serve her. And the Lord has given us this blessed Mother of His as a defender and helper.
–Saint Silouan the Athonite (1866-1938)
Anyone who would understand the nature of a tree should examine the earth that encloses its roots, the soil from which its sap climbs into branch, blossom, and fruit. Similarly to understand the person of Jesus Christ, one would do well to look to the soil that brought him forth: Mary, his mother.
–Roman Guardini (1885-1968)
If you love adventure, imitate the life of the Virgin Mary. Her life was nothing short of an epic journey of faith, during which she entrusted everything to God’s providence. She followed where he led, whether it was to a manger in Bethlehem, a road to Egypt, a common house in Nazareth, or a desolate hill outside Jerusalem. No matter where she was, she continued to persevere in this faith, risking everything in the sure confidence of God’s fidelity to his promise.
–Francois-Xavier Nguyen Van Thuân (1928-2002)
From the point of view of the world, there was nothing out of the ordinary about the things Mary did during her life: her help to her cousin Elizabeth, her care and concern for her infant son, her duties in the home at Nazareth, the journeys to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem, her burial of her husband Joseph, and her anguish at the sufferings of her son, Jesus. But from a supernatural perspective, her life was extraordinary because everything she did, she did out of obedience to and love for God.
–Francois-Xavier Nguyen Van Thuân (1928-2002)
This is the cause of all evils, the not knowing the Scriptures. We go into battle without arms, and how are we to come off safe?
–Saint John Chrysostom (347-407)
We are commanded to have only one enemy, the devil. With him never be reconciled! But with a brother, never be at enmity in thy heart.
–Saint John Chrysostom (347-407)
