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The Marianist Charism and Mary's Role
by Sr. Mary Louise Foley, F.M.I.
What I see as the
most striking charism Marianists share with our world is the role of Mary.
Relationships are critical in families, in our Church, and among nations. A
model for relationships is found in Mary. She was an image of wholeness for
Jesus which helped him to understand and to interpret the reality of "woman."
Jesus was able to act freely, spontaneously, and respectfully towards women.
Also, he was able to relate significantly with women as a result of the trust he
learned from Mary. Re-read the Gospels for evidence of this.
The emergence of liberation theology from the experience of the Church in Latin
America, and the healthy pressure the women's movement has placed on the North
American social order, highlight Mary's role in a new way. Here was a woman who
proclaimed that God vindicates the humble and oppressed. She became completely
involved in God's plan which comprised a radical reorientation of society's
ways. This involvement led her to see and to embrace God's creation and even to
endure some of it.
Mary challenges me today to ask myself: How much of this reality am I willing to
look at? How will I promote fullness of life for women, men, and children,
knowing I became responsible for what I see? Mary could face her future; she
gives us a hope and a courage to do the same.
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