From Father Joe: Mary Chapel Additions
Guardian Angels is thrilled to announce the recent additions to our Mary Chapel. With the installation of the "Our Lady of Guadalupe" and "Lourdes" statues, our parishioners now have even more avenues to deepen their connection to Mary, the mother of Jesus.
The inclusion of the "Our Lady of Guadalupe" statue holds immense significance for our diverse community. Our Lady of Guadalupe is a revered figure in the Catholic faith, and her appearance to Saint Juan Diego in Mexico in 1531 holds great cultural and spiritual significance for the Mexican and Latino communities. Her image serves as a powerful symbol of unity, hope, and maternal protection. The presence of this statue in our Mary Chapel not only strengthens the bond between our parishioners but also highlights the rich diversity of our congregation.
Likewise, the "Lourdes" statue brings forth the spirit of healing and pilgrimage. The Marian apparitions at Lourdes, France, in 1858, witnessed by Saint Bernadette Soubirous, have attracted millions of pilgrims seeking physical and spiritual healing. The statue serves as a reminder of Mary's compassion and intercession, encouraging our community to seek solace and restoration through faith. The inclusion of the "Lourdes" statue in our Mary Chapel provides a space for quiet reflection, prayer, and the possibility of miraculous healing encounters with the divine.
In addition to these new statues, we are excited to announce the impending arrival of the "Fatima" statue, which will further enrich our Mary Chapel. The apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal in 1917 captivated the world and continue to inspire countless individuals in their devotion to Mary. The "Fatima" statue will be a focal point for prayer and meditation, inviting our parishioners to embrace the messages of peace, repentance, and conversion that were shared during the apparitions.
Due to the overwhelming response and profound impact of our existing Mary Statue, we have made the decision to relocate it from the sanctuary to the entrance of the Church. This move allows for a more accessible and visible display of devotion, welcoming all who enter with the maternal love and grace of Mary. The statue serves as a reminder of our faith's foundation and the central role that Mary plays in our spiritual journey.
At Guardian Angels Parish, the addition of the "Our Lady of Guadalupe" and "Lourdes" statues in our Mary Chapel represents an ongoing commitment to providing meaningful avenues for our community to connect with Mary's loving presence. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of the "Fatima" statue, which will further deepen our devotion and inspire us in our faith.
We want to thank all those who gave so generously towards the building up of this chapel to honor the Virgin Mary.
Join us in celebrating the new Mary Chapel and its statues as we continue to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, and seek her intercession in our lives. May these statues serve as a constant reminder of Mary's enduring love and compassion for all who turn to her in prayer.