Living Advent with Mary, Bearer of Hopeby Cathy Larkin This was the theme developed by Vivienne Goldstein SM for the Marist Laity Reflection Day held in the Colin Library, Hunters Hill, on November 29 2008.Mary, Bearer of Hope to the World is the theme which has been adopted internationally by Marist Laity for both prayer and action, and Viv was asked to prepare the day around that theme, also being mindful of the eve of Advent…….. Viv led about 20 participants through a gentle yet engaging and stimulating process exploring this theme in our lives. We first pondered the meaning of hope and spent some time together dwelling on the mosaic of Mary at the Annunciation. Many rich and evocative interpretations were shared within the group. The sunshine broke through with perfect timing, coinciding with an opportunity for personal reflection. Many spent this time in the beautiful grounds of the Marist Centre, amidst the flowering jacarandas. Viv gave us much food for thought: as well as the image of the mosaic, Viv posed probing questions about what it means to be a bearer of hope and also provided the fertile text of Romans 8 on the place of hope in the Christian story. After a leisurely lunch when we had a chance to meet new people and catch up with old friends, Viv invited us to spend some time with Mary, walking with her, talking with her, together exploring her Magnificat.  The day was made beautifully complete with Mass celebrated by Patrick Kervin SM. It was a very reflective and prayerful opportunity to celebrate the last day of the liturgical year.On behalf of all who attended the Reflection Day, I would like to express deep gratitude to both Viv and Patrick for enabling us to step back from the busyness of our lives and to be open to the voice of the Spirit in our hearts……. Speak Lord, I am listening let your Word be done unto me, may it find a home in me |
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