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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. [Material taken from Marianist Soundings, vol. 6, no. 2 (Dayton, OH: NACMS, Spring 2002), pp. 33-34.]
Song: “Hail Mary: Gentle Woman,” text and tune by Carey Landry (located in Gather)
Opening Prayer: “Small Moments” by Daniel M. Jordan
You, who stir in the depths of our beings, inspire us to see your vision. Like Blessed Chaminade before the small statue of Our Lady of the Pillar, grind us to the appropriate size. May we never be too boastful or grandiose to see clearly the path before us, your great grandeur in the smallest details of life.
The widow in need. . . . The orphan yearning for a home. . . . The beggar at the city gate. . . . The child at play. . . . Transform us to provide for the least of our brothers and sisters.
For your lowly and humble servant, Mary, had found favor with you; in her littleness and openness she transformed society through your overpowering presence.
This small pillar in her honor and the faithful heart of Blessed Chaminade inspired us into being a Family. May we too be inspired to see visions and possibilities through attentiveness to you, our God.
For small loaves and fishes sustain, a tiny mustard seed bears a rich yield, and a lowly virgin has birthed the Savior. Nothing is impossible through you, O Lord. +Amen.
Small Group Sharing: Reflect and share on a Marian passage. To guide the discussion, focus on the following:
- What is the passage saying to you?
- What have you learned about Mary in the passage?
- Does this passage have a message for your life?
- Annunciation: Luke 1:26-38
- Jesus lost in the temple: Luke 2:41-52
- Cana: John 2:1-12
- Standing at the cross: John 19:25-27
- In the upper room: Acts 1:12-14
Large Group Discussion: After sharing in your small group, share insights garnered with your entire community.
Closing Prayer: “Magnificat,” by David Haas (located in Gather)