“Mary, Mediatrix of All Grace: A Model of Virtues”

“In the tapestry of Catholic faith, Mary holds a special place as the Mother of Jesus. But there’s an aspect of her role that often remains hidden, veiled in the profound mystery of intercession. Mary, as the Mediatrix of Grace, is believed to bridge the gap between humanity and divinity, offering solace, hope, and blessings to those who seek her aid.”

Feast Celebration

“The Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Quasi-Parish, located at Purok 18, New Visayas, Panabo City celebrated its 8th Parochial Fiesta Celebration on September 12, 2023. The feast began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Most Rev. Medil S. Aseo, D.D., concelebrated with several priests: Rev. Fr. Jeremy D. Tanong, Rev. Fr. Richell P. Fuentes, Rev. Fr. Bonnie D. Banal, Rev. Fr. Michael John C. Segura, Rev. Fr. Lucas P. Carisma, Jr., and the current Parish Administrator, Rev. Fr. Julius Cesar L. Anas. The four newly ordained deacons were also present: Rev. Mark Jay F. Pańa, Rev. Joben L. Planteras, Rev. Caryl L. Yntong, and Rev. Arvin D. Uriat. Bishop Medil encouraged the parishioners to pray for them as they were in their current diaconate formation program.

Mass servers, clad in their reverent attire, stood as silent sentinels of faith, assisting the clergy in the sacred rituals. It was a memorable day for Hon. Jose E. Relampagos, the City Mayor, together with his wife, Josephine, as they celebrated their wedding anniversary. The parishioners, gathered in joyful anticipation, filled the pews, their presence a testament to the power of prayerfulness shared among the faithful. Together, they created a tapestry of devotion and unity, a living embodiment of the gift of prayerfulness on this blessed occasion.

In his homily, Bishop Medil emphasized Mary’s virtues: complete trust, prayerfulness, and humility. He invited us to reflect on the virtues of Mary, which give hope to the community, strengthen relationships, and help us fulfill our mission to be “Christlike.”

Complete Trust in God

“Mary’s complete trust in God calls us to a life of total dependence on Him. Take a look at her humble beginning. Mary’s journey of trust began in the humble town of Nazareth. In the Gospel of Luke 1.26-38, Angel Gabriel appeared to her with a message that would forever alter the course of her life. Her life reminds us that when we place our trust in God, even in the face of adversity, we open ourselves to the limitless possibilities of divine grace and providence.”

Prayerfulness

“In a world that often emphasizes material possessions, let us not forget the intangible gifts that enrich our lives and nourish our souls. Prayerfulness is a timeless gift that, when embraced, brings peace, purpose, and a profound sense of connection.

The Magnificat of Mary, from the Gospel of Luke 1:46–55, reminds us that through prayer, we can magnify the Lord in our own lives and be agents of hope and justice in the world.”

Humility

“Mary’s humility is a timeless lesson for all of humanity. It teaches us that true greatness is found in surrendering to God’s will, in acknowledging our own limitations, and in recognizing that our purpose is not to exalt ourselves but to magnify the divine. Her life exemplifies that humility is not a weakness but a source of strength and grace.

As we journey through life, let us look to Mary as our model of virtues, a timeless example of faith, prayerfulness, and humility. In her life’s narrative, we discover not only inspiration but also a roadmap for our own spiritual growth. By embracing these virtues, we, too, can become channels of grace, nurturing our souls and radiating God’s love to the world. Mary, our guiding star, beckons us to walk the path of faith, prayer, and humility, so that we may, like her, magnify the Lord and reflect His light to all we encounter.” (Sara Mae Sotomil)