Marist Brothers Hermitage Mittagong
Hermitage pilgrimage walk
In Mary’s Way
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In Mary’s Way
Our Lady of the Lake
As we pass by the row of poplar trees, this is the first sacred image we see when we enter The Hermitage. Nestled among the trees at the first dam on the property, Mary has been present at The Hermitage since 1906, gently nurturing all those who seek to discover God in their lives. This statue, made of cast iron, was brought from France in 1903 by Br Stanislaus.
A History of Marist Brothers Mittagong 1906 - 2006, Br Tony Butler, 2006, p.253
Scripture:
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you.” But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God.”
Luke 1:26-30
For reflection:
Think of a time when you have been blessed by the presence of someone special. What influence did this have on you?
Prayer:
Mary, you welcome me as my Mother and offer to pray for me and with me, so I may continue to grow as one who also welcomes those I meet on life’s journey. May I be present to people as you were, with a listening and compassionate heart. Amen.
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In Mary’s Way
Our Lady of Lourdes
Gazing down the driveway at Lavalla, Mary waits patiently to greet her guests. She welcomes all visitors and reminds us of her deep love for all her daughters and sons.
We are respectful of each one’s personal journey. There is a place for those with doubts and spiritual uncertainty, a place for all.
Water From the Rock n.114
Marist Spirituality:
Mary inspired in the first Marists a new vision of being Church which was modelled on that of the first Christians. This Marian Church has the heart of a mother: no one is abandoned. A mother believes in the goodness at the core of a person and forgives readily. There is patient listening and dialogue. Challenge and confrontation are done with honesty and openness.
For reflection:
Spend a moment reflecting upon your own spiritual journey. How did you first come to know God?
Prayer:
Mary, you welcome me with the heart of a mother. I ask you to help me come to a greater understanding of God’s love in my life and recognise that all is gift, that all comes from love, and that I am to follow Jesus in my love for others, especially the young and most neglected. Amen.
