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Looking back on my days as a high school student, I am grateful that I attended a Marist school because that experience taught me the importance of Mary in my spiritual life. Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Order, served as an ideal guide because his teachings provided me with invaluable insight about how to live a lifestyle devoted to Mary. The Marists understood that praying to Mary is the most effective way to reach Jesus because she is the Mother of God. Just as Jesus Christ lived inside of Mary, we must pray to Mary so that Jesus can come and live inside of us as well.

In addition, Mary protects us and guides us as the Good Mother. When we ask for her help, we are as children who seek her comfort. Since she raised Jesus during his childhood, she knows all too well about the turbulent emotions we feel as God’s children on a daily basis. With a mother’s understanding, she helps us cast away our fears and doubts because she is taking care of us by interceding on our behalf. Just as she shed tears at the suffering of Jesus on the Cross, Mary is pained by the hardships we face in our lives. Mary would lovingly grant refuge to anyone who is willing to open their heart to her.

Lastly, we must strive to mirror Mary’s spiritual life because she is the perfect disciple. Mary understands the spiritual qualities that are necessary for a deeper relationship with God: humility, simplicity, and modesty. When Mary was first called to be the Mother of Jesus, she did not understand her role in God’s plan, and yet she said: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” If we are ever in doubt over what God has in store for us, we should keep in mind that Mary felt the exact same way and answer His call to serve. Always remember to pray to Mary, and let us all strive to live lives of humility, simplicity, and modesty as she once did.

Written By: Eddie Morles