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Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Readings of the Day
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Today we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. As Catholics, we believe "the most
Blessed Virgin Mary
was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and
privilege
of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of
the
human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin."
(Pius IX, Ineffabilis
Deus, 1854)  God chose her and gave her
the grace needed to respond to her unique calling from the moment of
conception. 

The readings today seem to draw us into Mary's call by God
to be the mother of Jesus.  Paul's letter
to the Ephesians emphasizes we are called like Mary to live our life
for
God.  He writes, "in him we were also
chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One...so that
we might exist
for the praise of his glory."  It is an
opportunity to reflect on how we have all responded to our unique
calls. 

We have been drawn to the work of God and we have the grace
necessary to respond to help the least of our brothers and sisters in
a variety
of ways. Just because we responded to the call, does not mean it is
any easy
road. Mary encouraged Jesus, most likely knowing what the outcome for
her son
would be.  She persevered.  She found support and was an
encouragement
for others.

Our work at Catholic Charities can have its ups and
downs.  There are times when I wonder if
I am making an impact.  However, I know
that I am responding to God's call in my life to live out the
Gospel. This is
what really matters. We are not called to be successful, just
faithful.

It is good at times to stop, reflect and be open to the Holy
Spirit. Periodically ask yourself, "Am I using my gifts for the
glory of God?
How do I connect my work in Catholic Charities and living a life of
holiness?"  Reflecting on our call helps
us to see the grace in our ministries. It gives us perspective and
opens us to
say "May it be done to me according to your Word."

 

 

Diane Zbasnik is the Director for the Diocesan Social Action
Office for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland. She supervises
the
6-person department, which includes 5 regional social action offices.

 

 

 




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