Session #4 - There is something about Mary (part 1)

 I - "Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you" - Luke 1:28

* You may have heard the words "Hail Mary..." as part of the prayers we learn as we grow in our faith. "Hail" is a special salute given to very special/important people. Here we already see how important Mary is to God and in our faith.

* Mary has many titles within our Church, and she is always leading us to Jesus.

* The first thing you need to know about Mary is that we do NOT worship her. We admire and honor her because of her courage when she said "Yes" to God's vision and mission for her. 

* Mary was chosen by God from the beginning of time to be the one who would bring Jesus to this world. She did so at her own risk, and placing total trust in God and His plan.

II - Who is Mary?

* Mary was a teenager when she was called by God to fulfill the mission she was chosen for. Her "Yes" is also known as "Fiat".

* Lets look at the short video below to learn more about Mary...

III - Mary is one of the our Allies!

* Mary is always praying for us! And her presence is known all throughout the world. The many titles and names the world has given her are a reflection of the many things she asks for us: mercy, love, peace, holiness, etc.

* Many saints have credited Mary as the MEANS to get closer to Jesus. Remember, Jesus is GOD, and Mary points the way to Him.

* Is there a need that you have that you have been asking God for? Asking Mary for help is another way to present your need to God and His will. Mary always "intercedes" for us - meaning that she is always asking God for our needs, even when we are not praying for them!

IV - Learn the "Hail Mary"

* The "Hail Mary" prayer is one way to get to know Mary and ask her to pray for us always: 

 V- HOMEWORK - due on 10/31/2021

* Read again Luke, Chaper 1, verses 26-38 AND read Luke chapter 2 and answer the following questions:
    - What was Mary's reaction when she heard the angel's greeting?
    - What did Mary do upon seeing the angel and the shepherds when she gave birth to Jesus?
    - How did Mary feel when she couldn't find Jesus and then found him in the temple?