Today, as we celebrate the Most Sweet Name of Mary (which means “Star of the Sea”), we venerate her not merely out of admiration or because of the awe she inspires in us. We praise her because she has opened the way for humanity to be reconciled with God. She is our guide, leading us towards true life: the life of human dignity that Christ has taught us, the life of authentic love.

Her experiences were intense from a very young age. In all these situations, Mary always responded with hope and serenity, trusting in God, often without understanding what was happening. Rather than “doing”, Mary “lets things be done”. She allows God to guide us through difficult and painful situations. As Saint Bernard recommends to us: “If the winds of temptation rise, if you stumble upon the rocks of tribulation, look to the star, call upon Mary (…). With her help, you will reach your destination safely and experience how fittingly the Gospel says: ‘The name of the virgin was Mary’ (Lk 1:27).”

—Mary, companion on our journey, “Stella Maris”, help us to follow wholeheartedly and generously in your footsteps of faithfulness, trust and generosity.