7 Mary of Calvary

Start:

Allow your body and mind to slow down. Become aware of the presence of God.

Light the candle which symbolises the light of Christ.

Hope: To deepen my faith in God’s redeeming love in the midst of human suffering.

Begin with a brief conversation with God asking to be open for the grace which you hope for during this retreat.

Introduction:

Like Mary of Calvary we recognise Jesus in the face of the broken and suffering, aching for them with a mother’s heart and believing in them with a mother’s passion. In an age in which hope struggles with despair, we stand by those who are dying or grieving.

John 19:25-27 | Mary at the foot of the Cross

Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.

First Exercise, Lectio: What does the text tell me?

Read the Scripture passage slowly, at least twice.

If a word or phrase or idea seems important, take note of it.

Second Exercise, Meditatio: What do I say to God in light of the text?

Allow the important word, phrase or idea to enter your thoughts.

Be with the words, recognising that you are in God’s presence.

Allow the Holy Spirit to lead your awareness of the words.

Third Exercise, Oratio: Prayer

Let your heart speak to God.

Use the words of the Scripture passage or the thoughts that emerged during your reflection on them.

Fourth Exercise, Contemplatio: Contemplate in silence and quiet.

Let go of words or thoughts and allow yourself to rest in the presence of God