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It has been a hectic week, and you are responsible for your community’s next gathering. Here is a simple prayer service you can use. [This material is taken from Marianist Soundings, vol. 6, no. 1 (Dayton: NACMS, Fall 2001), pp. 60-61]
Song: “I Sing a Maid” (located in Gather)
Opening Prayer:
Gracious God, we thank you for giving us Mary as mother and model. In all that was asked of her, Mary stood firm. May her example be a strength for us as we go about each day in your service.
Small Group Sharing:
- Thinking back on my life, what has been my experience, my relationship with Mary?
- How and when did I first lean of Mary?
- How do I think of her today; i.e., mother, woman, friend, sister, a statue in church?
- What title do I give to Mary? (During the closing prayer, community members share their titles of Mary.)
Large Group Discussion: After sharing in your small group, share insights garnered with your entire community.
Closing Prayer: “A Marianist Litany of Mary,” by Joseph H. Lackner, SM
Mother of comfort and understanding,
Pray for us.
Mother who shares our joys,
Pray for us.
Mother who endures our sorrows,
Pray for us.
Woman willing to believe the impossible,
Pray for us.
Woman, graced by a husband’s love,
Pray for us.
Woman, widowed by a husband’s death,
Pray for us.
Woman, champion of the poor and lowly,
Pray for us.
Queen of integrity,
Pray for us.
Queen of destiny,
Pray for us.
Queen of peace,
Pray for us.
(Community members add their own titles)
Pray for us.