Under the Apple Tree with St. Francis de Sales

Everyone makes mistakes.

Everyone has faults.

Everyone has weak places.

God already knows this, and He does not stop loving us because of it.

When you do something wrong, do not sit there feeling sad and hopeless. Tell God you are sorry. Ask Him to help you. Then begin again.

A little tree does not become strong in one day. It needs sunshine, rain, and time. Our souls are like that too. We grow little by little.

Sometimes we want to become good all at once. Then, when we fail, we get upset with ourselves. But God is more patient than we are.

So be gentle with your own heart.

If you fall, get up quietly. If you are weak, ask Jesus for strength. If you are sorry, trust that He hears you.

Do not spend all your time looking back at yesterday’s mistakes. Look toward God instead, and take the next right step.

The saints were not saints because they never fell. They became saints because they kept loving God and kept trying again.

God is patient with you.

Try to be patient with yourself too.

And remember—

every day is a new chance to begin again with Jesus.

Note: This is a modern adaptation inspired by the writings and spirit of Saint Francis de Sales rather than a direct translation of a specific text. It has been prepared by Kathy for the Reading Club at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Littlemore, Iowa.

Under the Apple Tree with Francis de Sales

The Apostes Creed

I believe in God,
the Father Almighty,
Creator of heaven and earth;

and in Jesus Christ,
His only Son, Our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.

He descended into hell;
the third day He arose again from the dead;
He ascended into heaven,
and sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty;
from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Ghost,
the Holy Catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and life everlasting. Amen.

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator, Come

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator, come,
From Thy bright heavenly throne!
Come, take possession of our souls,
And make them all Thine Own!

Thou Who art called the Paraclete,
Best Gift of God above,
The Living Spring, the Living Fire,
Sweet Unction, and True Love!

Thou Who art seven-fold in Thy grace, 

Finger of God’s right hand,
His Promise, teaching little ones
To speak and understand!

O guide our minds with Thy blest light—
With love our hearts inflame—
And with Thy strength which ne’er decays
Confirm our mortal frame.

Far from us drive our hellish foe—
True peace unto us bring—
And through all perils guide us safe
Beneath Thy sacred wing.

Through Thee may we the Father know—
Through Thee the Eternal Son—
And Thee the Spirit of Them Both—
Thrice-blessed Three in One.

All glory to the Father be,
With His Co-equal Son;
The same to Thee, O Paraclete,
While endless ages run. Amen.

"They were all filled with the Holy Ghost. Alleluia 

"And began to speak. Alleluia."

Footnote: This hymn is taken from The Roman Breviary, translated from Latin into English by John, Marquess of Bute, K.T. and published by William Blackwood and Sons of Edinburgh and London in 1879. Bute had a rare gift for translation: he could carry the ancient Latin faithfully into English without making it sound cold or stiff. His words keep the solemn Catholic meaning, but also give the hymn a graceful rhythm, dignity, and devotional warmth, making it especially beautiful when read aloud.

Prayer Before Holy Communion

 

Dear Jesus,

be merciful to me,
and forgive my sins.

I believe in You.
I hope in You.
And I love You
with all my heart.

You became man for us.
You suffered for us.
And You died upon the Cross for us.

O Jesus,
hidden in the Blessed Sacrament,
I adore You
with all my soul.

Though I cannot see Your holy face now,
You are truly near.

Wash my heart clean
with Your Precious Blood,
and keep me close to You
in life
and in death.

Dear Mother Mary,
and Saint John,
who stood beneath the Cross,
pray for me,
and help me remain faithful.

Lead me, dear Jesus,
on the path to Heaven,
until one day
I may see You face to face
in everlasting light.

Amen.

Prayer for Divine Love

O dear Lord Jesus Christ,
You have said: “Ask, and you shall receive;
seek, and you shall find;
knock, and the door shall be opened to you.”

Please place within my heart
a sweet longing and a burning desire
for Your holy love,
so that I may love You truly
with all my heart,
both in my words
and in all that I do.

And may I never stop loving You,
for You live and reign with God the Father
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
forever and ever.
Amen.

This prayer (page 10) comes from a very small and beautiful Catholic prayer book printed in Augsburg, Germany, in the year 1776. The little book is titled Auserlesenes Gebethbüchlein — which means “A Choice Little Prayer Book.” It contains morning and evening prayers, prayers for Confession and Holy Communion, litanies, and many other devotions for daily Catholic life.

The book was first prepared for the "young nobility" of Austria, but later published for the spiritual benefit of all Catholics. Inside are old German blackletter pages, hand-pressed in the 18th century, along with delicate devotional engravings meant to inspire prayer and recollection.

The opening approval pages show that the prayers were carefully examined and officially approved by Church authorities in Augsburg in the year 1752 before later editions were printed. These old “Imprimatur” pages remind us how lovingly the Church protected the purity of Catholic prayer books in those days.

Now, almost 250 years later, these prayers are being gently translated into clear, easy-to-understand English by Sister Mary Claire for her little sister Kathy at Camp Littlemore Farm, so they may once again be prayed slowly and reverently by loving hearts.

Prayer Before Confession

Holy God,

You are always ready to forgive.

Please look upon me with Your endless goodness and mercy.

My poor soul wishes to return to You and be washed clean through the holy Sacrament of Confession.

Give me the grace to prepare well for this holy sacrament.

Fill my mind with light, so I may clearly see my sins.

Fill my heart with sorrow, so I may truly hate the wrong I have done.

Fill my lips with honesty and courage, so I may confess my sins sincerely and completely.

And through Your mercy, may I receive pardon and forgiveness.

Amen.

Holy Spirit, eternal Light,

shine into my heart.

Help me to see all the sins by which I have offended my dear God.

Let me know them clearly and honestly, so I may confess them with a truthful heart.

Give me true sorrow for my sins, because they have displeased God, who is so good, so loving, and worthy of all my love.

O merciful Father, turn away Your anger from me.

Forgive my sins, and do not punish me according to Your justice, but according to Your mercy.

Amen.

This prayer (page 10) comes from a very small and beautiful Catholic prayer book printed in Augsburg, Germany, in the year 1776. The little book is titled Auserlesenes Gebethbüchlein — which means “A Choice Little Prayer Book.” It contains morning and evening prayers, prayers for Confession and Holy Communion, litanies, and many other devotions for daily Catholic life.

The book was first prepared for the "young nobility" of Austria, but later published for the spiritual benefit of all Catholics. Inside are old German blackletter pages, hand-pressed in the 18th century, along with delicate devotional engravings meant to inspire prayer and recollection.

The opening approval pages show that the prayers were carefully examined and officially approved by Church authorities in Augsburg in the year 1752 before later editions were printed. These old “Imprimatur” pages remind us how lovingly the Church protected the purity of Catholic prayer books in those days.

Now, almost 250 years later, these prayers are being gently translated into clear, easy-to-understand English by Sister Mary Claire for her little sister Kathy at Camp Littlemore Farm, so they may once again be prayed slowly and reverently by loving hearts.

The Old Morning Prayer

Praised be the most holy and undivided Trinity—the Father,the Son,

and the Holy Ghost.
My dear God, I kneel before You with a humble heart.
You are my one true and living God.

I believe in You because You are eternal Truth.
I hope in You because You are endless Mercy.
And I love You above all things because You are the greatest and highest Good.

I thank You for every blessing You have ever given me.
And with all my heart, I am sorry for every sin by which I have offended You.

Dear Lord, forgive me through the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ.
I would rather suffer anything than offend You again.

Whatever happens today, I will try to receive it from Your loving hand,
so that Your holy will may be done in me.

May all my thoughts, words, works, and everything I suffer today
be for Your honor and glory, and done out of love for You.

I join everything with the holy merits of Jesus Christ,
and offer it to You in thanksgiving for all Your goodness,
in sorrow for my sins,
for the souls of the faithful departed,
for the help and salvation of my friends and even my enemies,
and to receive every grace and blessing You wish to give me.

Strengthen me, O God, in all goodness.
Protect me from evil.
Crown me with Your grace and mercy,
and never let me be separated from You.

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,
into your loving care I place my soul and body.

Holy Guardian Angel, protect me today.
Enlighten me, guide me, and stay beside me in every struggle,
so that I may never fall away from God.

All holy Saints of Heaven, especially my dear patron saints,
pray for me and keep me safe from every danger of body and soul,
and lead me at last to everlasting life.

May the blessing of Almighty God—
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost—
come upon me, upon my parents and family,
and remain with us always.

Amen. 

This prayer (page 3) comes from a very small and beautiful Catholic prayer book printed in Augsburg, Germany, in the year 1776. The little book is titled Auserlesenes Gebethbüchlein — which means “A Choice Little Prayer Book.” It contains morning and evening prayers, prayers for Confession and Holy Communion, litanies, and many other devotions for daily Catholic life.

The book was first prepared for the “young nobility” of Austria, but later published for the spiritual benefit of all Catholics. Inside are old German blackletter pages, hand-pressed in the 18th century, along with delicate devotional engravings meant to inspire prayer and recollection.

The opening approval pages show that the prayers were carefully examined and officially approved by Church authorities in Augsburg in the year 1752 before later editions were printed. These old “Imprimatur” pages remind us how lovingly the Church protected the purity of Catholic prayer books in those days.

Now, almost 250 years later, these prayers are being gently translated into clear, easy-to-understand English by Sister Mary Claire for her little sister Kathy at Camp Littlemore Farm, so they may once again be prayed slowly and reverently by loving hearts.

Blessed Among Women

 See you at Matins

The Nineteenth Day of the Month of Mary

Mother Mary is truly “blessed,” because God chose her to be His holy dwelling place. Jesus Christ, true God and true Man, rested beneath her heart. She is blessed because from her pure and spotless soul came Jesus, who is the Resurrection and the Life, bringing joy and hope to the whole world.

Mary is blessed because she gave birth to the Savior whom the people welcomed with cries of joy, saying, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Saint Elizabeth also spoke these beautiful words to Mary: “Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.”

Mary is not blessed only because she carried Jesus within her, but because Jesus Himself, the divine Son of God, filled her with every grace and blessing. The holy Fruit of her womb is the source of all blessing for every nation and every soul.

And so, among all women, Mary shines as the most blessed, because through her, God brought His love and salvation into the world.

A Short Little Prayer to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament

Dear Jesus,

be merciful to me,
and forgive my sins.

I believe in You.
I hope in You.
And I love You
with all my heart.

You became man for us.
You suffered for us.
And You died upon the Cross for us.

O Jesus,
hidden in the Blessed Sacrament,
I adore You
with all my soul.

Though I cannot see Your holy face now,
You are truly near.

Wash my heart clean
with Your Precious Blood,
and keep me close to You
in life
and in death.

Dear Mother Mary,
and Saint John,
who stood beneath the Cross,
pray for me,
and help me remain faithful.

Lead me, dear Jesus,
on the path to Heaven,
until one day
I may see You face to face
in everlasting light.

Amen.

Mother Mary Honored Throughout the World

The Virgin of the Rosary
Bartolome Esteban Murillo

Wherever people truly believe in and worship Jesus Christ our Lord, there too Mother Mary, His blessed Virgin Mother, will be lovingly honored. In every language and throughout the whole world, faithful Christians praise and revere the most blessed Virgin Mary. What the holy Mother of God once foretold has now come true, for all generations call her blessed.

Now Mother Mary sits radiant with heavenly glory upon her throne in Heaven. After her divine Son, Jesus Christ our Savior, she holds the highest place. She was given this great honor because the Son of God Himself once chose her pure and virginal heart to be His dwelling place upon earth. Because of this, she became the holiest and most worthy creature in all the world.

Translated at Littlemore Farm. The original text appears to come from the late 19th century and draws upon the writings of St. Ildephonsus and St. Jerome.

Besssed Among Women - 2

 

Saint Eucherius and the Venerable Bede say that Mother Mary is most truly called “Blessed among women,” because through her all womanhood was honored, and the world itself was freed from its sorrow through Jesus Christ.

Just as the Angel Gabriel spoke to the holy Virgin Mary, so Saint Elizabeth also said to her:

“You are blessed among women.”

With these same beautiful words, both the Archangel and Saint Elizabeth praised Mother Mary, so that she would be recognized by all people as honored and wonderfully blessed among the children of God.

And in Heaven, just as among mankind on earth, she is held in love and blessing forever.

Mother Mary, Blessed Among Women

 

 

The saints teach us that the dignity of holy virginity began in a most beautiful way with Mother Mary. She became the teacher and banner-bearer of pure love, because her whole heart belonged to God.

Mother Mary is truly blessed, because by the working of the Holy Ghost she received the Son of God into her womb. She kept her purity forever, and because of this she is rightly called the Queen of Virgins.

She is blessed above all creatures, because she received and gave birth to Jesus, the One who holds all creation in being. The whole world is held up by Him, yet He allowed Himself to be carried in Mary’s arms.

She is blessed because she nourished the very One who feeds every living thing on earth. How wonderful and tender this is: the Creator of all became a little Child, and Mother Mary cared for Him with a mother’s love.

During this Month of Mary, let us honor her purity, her humility, and her faithful love. She always leads her children gently to Jesus. 

Translated from the German at Camp littlemore Farm.

Stay With Me

Dear Mother Mary, as the day comes to its quiet end, I come to you softly.

You are so gentle and full of love, a shining light when everything grows dim, and a sweet comfort in the stillness of night.

When my heart feels tired, you draw me close and let me rest near you, as a child rests safely beside her mother.

You are so pure and so beautiful, living now with God in Heaven, high above the angels—and still you remember me.

Dear Mother, 

please ask your Son Jesus to forgive me for anything I did wrong today, and make my heart clean and peaceful again.

Stay near me through the night. Watch over me while I sleep.
Keep me safe, and lead me always closer to Jesus.

And if I wake in the quiet darkness, help me remember that Heaven is near, and you are watching over me.

Help me to love God more tomorrow, and one day to praise Him with the angels, forever in Heaven.

Good night, dear Mother. Stay with me.

Amen.

Mother Mary, Full of Grace for the Whole World

The saints teach us that Mother Mary was not filled with grace only for herself, but for all people. Many holy souls have received special graces from God to help and guide others, but Mother Mary was given a fullness of grace unlike anyone else because she was chosen to help bring salvation to the whole world through her Son, Jesus Christ.

God filled her heart with heavenly gifts so completely that she became a loving channel through which His mercy and blessings could flow to His children. Because she belonged so perfectly to God, she was made ready to carry Jesus into the world and to lead souls gently toward Him.

The holy writers also tell us that God has entrusted many treasures of grace to Mother Mary’s care. In His goodness, He often chooses to let His blessings come to us through her loving hands, because she is the Mother closest to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

During this beautiful Month of Mary, let us remember that our heavenly Mother desires to help every soul draw nearer to God. When we pray to her with trust and simplicity, she gently brings our needs before her divine Son and watches over us with tender care.

Translated and prepared in gentle modern English by Sister Mary Claire from a treasured old German Marian devotional book, likely printed in the late 19th century and carefully preserved at Camp Littlemore Farm during the Month of Mary.

Mother Mary, the Sea of Grace

The saints tell us that Mother Mary gave herself completely to God with a heart full of love. She kept nothing for herself, but offered her whole soul and life entirely to Him. Like a beautiful offering rising to Heaven, her love belonged fully to God alone.

The holy writers also say that the name “Mary” can mean “sea.” This is a beautiful thought, because Mother Mary truly is like a great sea filled with God’s graces. God poured His heavenly gifts into her in wonderful fullness, and through her loving hands those graces flow out to His children.

Mother Mary received a very special grace unlike anyone else. She alone was chosen to become the Mother of Jesus, and because of this she was filled with extraordinary holiness and love. Yet the gifts she received were not meant for herself alone. God filled her heart so that His grace could gently reach the whole world through her.

During this blessed Month of Mary, let us draw close to our heavenly Mother with trust and confidence. The more we come to her with childlike hearts, the more she leads us lovingly toward Jesus, from whose Sacred Heart every grace first comes.

Translated and prepared in gentle modern English by Sister Mary Claire from a treasured old German Marian devotional book, likely printed in the late 19th century and lovingly preserved at Camp Littlemore Farm during the Month of Mary.

Night Prayer

Dear Mother Mary,

as the day comes to its quiet end,

I come to you softly.


You are so gentle and full of love,

a shining light when everything grows dim,

and a sweet comfort in the stillness of night.


When my heart feels tired,

you draw me close

and let me rest near you,

as a child rests safely beside her mother.


You are so pure and so beautiful,

living now with God in Heaven,

high above the angels—

and still you remember me.


Dear Mother,

please ask your Son Jesus

to forgive me for anything I did wrong today,

and make my heart clean and peaceful again.


Stay near me through the night.

Watch over me while I sleep.

Keep me safe,

and lead me always closer to Jesus.


And if I wake in the quiet darkness,

help me remember

that Heaven is near,

and you are watching over me.


Help me to love God more tomorrow,

and one day to praise Him with the angels,

forever in Heaven.


Good night, dear Mother.

Stay with me.


Amen.


Good night, dear Jesus…

Good night, dear Mother…

The Loving Sorrow of Mother Mary

Mother Mary loved her divine Son with a love deeper than we can fully understand. The holy saints tell us that every wound Our Lord suffered upon the Cross was also felt in her own heart. As Jesus carried His sorrows in His sacred body, Mother Mary carried them within her soul with a mother’s tender love and suffering.

So great was her love for Jesus that, if it had been possible, she would gladly have suffered every pain again and again for Him. Her whole heart belonged to her Son, and she never turned away from Him, even at the foot of the Cross.

Just as we thank Our Lord Jesus Christ with all our hearts for willingly suffering and dying to save us, we should also give loving thanks to His holy Mother. She stood beside Him in sorrow and willingly shared in His suffering out of love for us and for Him.

During this beautiful month of May, let us stay close to Mother Mary and remember how faithfully she loved Jesus through every joy and every sorrow. A mother who loved so deeply will surely care gently for her children too.

Translated and gently adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book Omni Dei: St. Marien-Buch,featuring meditations drawn from the writings of St. Peter Damian, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and St. Bonaventure. Published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

The Twelfth Day of Mary’s Month — May 12

The Apostles Creed

 

The Holy Spirit filled Mother Mary with every grace and virtue that belongs to God’s own goodness. From the very beginning, she was surrounded by His light and love. When the angel told her, “The power of the Most High will overshadow thee,” it meant that God Himself would dwell very closely with her in a beautiful and lasting way.

This was not just a grace given for a single moment. The Holy Spirit remained with Mother Mary throughout her whole life, guiding her, strengthening her, and filling her heart with heavenly peace. Because she stayed so near to God, she became truly “full of grace,” always shining with His goodness.

The saints tell us that it was fitting for God to give such wonderful graces to the one chosen to receive and carry His Divine Son. Since Jesus is the source of all grace and holiness, it was only right that His Blessed Mother would be filled with special grace beyond all others.
And so during this lovely month of May, we look to Mother Mary with confidence and love. She teaches us to open our hearts quietly to the Holy Spirit, just as she did, so that God’s grace may grow gently within us too.

 

Translated and gently adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book Omni Dei: St. Marien-Buch,featuring meditations drawn from the writings of St. Peter Damian, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and St. Bonaventure. Published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

The Sunday Sermon

Who wants to close the books and listen to the Sunday Sermon???

 

The Eleventh Day of Mary’s Month

 
Mother Mary loves us with a love deeper and more tender than any earthly mother could ever give. The saints tell us that her kindness is beyond compare because she carried the Son of God beneath her heart, and her whole soul was filled with His holy love. Because of this, she understands our weakness and our struggles with a mother’s gentle compassion.

Mary is called the Queen of Heaven, yet her greatness shines most brightly in her mercy. She does not turn away from sinners who truly wish to leave their sins behind. Even the most forgotten or troubled soul is precious to her. She gathers the hurting close to her heart and prays for them with great tenderness.

No one who sincerely seeks God is abandoned by Our Blessed Mother. She stays beside her children, helping them return to Jesus with trust and peace. Her love is patient, faithful, and full of hope.

During this beautiful month of May, let us remember that Mother Mary is not far away from us. She is our heavenly Mother, always ready to listen to our prayers and lead us gently to her Son.

Little Prayer:
Dear Mother Mary, stay close to us today. Help us to love Jesus more and never be afraid to return to Him when we fall. Amen.

Translated and gently adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book Omni Dei: St. Marien-Buch,featuring meditations drawn from the writings of St. Peter Damian, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and St. Bonaventure. Published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

The 10th Day of May

 
The saints tell us that our Blessed Mother Mary never lacks the power or the desire to help her children. Only a person who forgets how dearly Jesus loves His Mother could ever doubt her loving care. The love that filled the Heart of Jesus was also poured into the heart of Mary, and because of this, she watches over us with tenderness beyond our understanding.

Even while Our Lady still walked this earth, she was gentle and merciful toward those who suffered. How much more now, from Heaven, where she reigns beside her Son in glory, does she listen to the cries of her children! She sees every sorrow, every burden, and every hidden tear. Because she knows the troubles of mankind so well, she gives her kindness freely and never grows tired of helping those who call upon her.

Mary is truly our Mother. And what loving mother could ever forget her children?

During this beautiful month of May, let us remember that no prayer whispered to Our Lady is too small for her loving heart to hear.

Little Prayer:

Dear Mother Mary, stay close to us today. Help us to trust your gentle care and lead us always closer to Jesus. Amen.

Translated and adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book St. Marien-Buch, published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

The Ninth Day of May

(From St. Clement of Alexandria and St. Alphonsus Maria de Liguori)

Mary, the Virgin Mother of God, is like a beautiful and holy tabernacle made by the Holy Spirit Himself.
God filled her with His grace and holiness because Jesus, the King of Heaven and Lord of all glory, chose to dwell within her in a pure and untouched way.

How powerful must Our Blessed Mother’s prayers be before God!
If the prayers of the saints are already so strong and precious, then how much more powerful are the prayers of Mary, who is not only a servant of God, but the very Mother of Jesus Himself, the Queen of Heaven.

When the saints pray for us, they pray as faithful servants of God.
But when Mary prays for us, she prays as a loving Mother close to the heart of her Son.

Translated and adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book St. Marien-Buch, published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

I See You in a Thousand Pictures

“I see you in a thousand lovely pictures, dear Mother,
yet none of them can fully show how beautiful you truly are to my heart.

All I really know is this:
the noise of the world fades away when I think of you,
and a quiet, heavenly peace remains deep within my soul forever.”

From the 19th century German Marian prayer book Omni Dei (“All for God through Mary”).
Translated and prepared by Sister Mary Claire, and recorded by her younger sister Kathy at Camp Littlemore Farm in Iowa.

Morning Song to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Dear Blessed Mother, every morning I think of you.
You are the beautiful Queen of Heaven, and I place all my worries into your hands.
Everything I have, and everything I am, I give to you with love.

When I look up toward Heaven, I remember that you are the bright star I can trust, even when life feels dark or lonely around me.

Oh, how happy my heart feels when I think about you!
You bring sweet comfort when troubles come, and you help make hard things easier to carry.
Whenever I quietly pray to you, I can feel your gentle care watching over me wherever I go.

Dearest Mother Mary, I want to remember you always.
I want to belong to you with all my heart and try every day to do what is right and good.
I want to follow in your footsteps and live kindly, faithfully, and close to Jesus all the days of my life.

And one day, dear Mother, please remember me too before your Son, Jesus.
Pray that He will welcome me into the joy of Heaven, where I may see both Him and you forever, free from every sorrow, and stand happily before His throne.

From the 19th century German Marian prayer book Omni Dei (“All for God through Mary”).
Translated and prepared by Sister Mary Claire, and recorded by her younger sister Kathy at Camp Littlemore Farm in Iowa.

The Eighth Day of Mary's Month

The Blessed Virgin Mary received a glory greater than any earthly triumph when she gave the world her Divine Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him, the whole Christian family received new life. Because Our Lord came from her loving heart, all who belong to Christ may also look upon Mary as their Mother.

The saints remind us that when we call Mary the “Mother of God,” we speak of a dignity so high and beautiful that no earthly honor can compare to it. Yet Mary does not keep this closeness to God for herself alone. She lovingly shares her care with all the faithful who are united to Christ.

What comfort this gives to the soul! The Mother of Jesus is also our Mother. We may go to her with confidence, knowing she watches over her children with tenderness and mercy.

And so, during these gentle days of May, let us thank Our Blessed Mother for leading us always closer to her Son. The more we belong to Jesus, the more surely we may rest beneath the loving mantle of Mary.

“The Mother of my God is also my Mother.”

Translated and adapted by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book St. Marien-Buch, published in Breslau, Germany by Carl König in the late 19th century.

The Seventh Day of Mary’s Month

 
Today, on the seventh day of beautiful May, we stop and quietly think about the greatness of Our Blessed Mother. The saints loved to speak of her because they knew that no creature has ever been so close to Jesus as Mary.

Saint Bernard and Saint Bonaventure tell us to consider the dignity of the Mother of God. Mary was chosen from all eternity to be the Mother of Our Lord Himself. Because of this, her greatness is beyond anything we can fully understand. We may admire the mountains, the stars, or the beauty of the whole world, yet the soul of Mary is more wonderful still, because God filled her with His grace in such a perfect way.

The saints even say that while God could create a larger world or a greater heaven above us, He could not create a greater Mother than the Mother of God. Such words help us understand how precious Mary is in the sight of Heaven.

And yet, for all her greatness, Our Lady remained gentle and humble. She did not seek honor for herself, but gave all glory to God. That is why we love her so dearly in this month of May. She is not far away from us. She is a true mother who watches over her children with tenderness and care.

May this seventh day of Mary’s month remind us to honor her with simple prayers, little sacrifices, and loving hearts. The more we come close to Mary, the closer she will lead us to Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, help us to love your Son with faithful and humble hearts. Amen.

These May meditations were translated by Sister Mary Claire from the old German devotional book “Omni die” — Vollständiges St. Marien-Buch (“Every Day” — Complete Saint Mary’s Book), edited by Fr. St. M. N. Franke and likely published in the late 1800s or early 1900s.

The Holy Name of Mary - May 6

The beautiful and exalted name “Mary,” which was given to the holy Mother of God, was not invented by men, nor chosen by human preference as names usually are. This name did not come from the earth—it came from heaven. It was given to the most blessed Virgin by God Himself.
The name “Mary” is so sweet and so lovely that one cannot speak it without feeling a stirring of love—love for the Blessed Virgin, and love for God, who gave her this holy name.

A Quiet Confidence in Our Blessed Mother

There is something deeply consoling for us to remember as we go about our days, especially when we feel weak or unsure of ourselves. Holy Mother Mary is never far away. She does not forget us, nor does she grow distant. Rather, she stands always before her divine Son, looking upon Him with love, and gently presenting our needs to Him.

The saints remind us of this beautiful truth with great clarity. They tell us that whoever does not recognize Mary as the Mother of God does not yet fully share in the life God desires to give. For she is not only His Mother, but also a motherly refuge for us. She remains always in His presence, never ceasing to pray for those who are burdened by sin or sorrow.

And so we are encouraged with simple and childlike trust: take your refuge in the glorious Virgin Mary, and do so without any doubt. For it is certain—most certain—that the Son listens to His Mother. When she speaks, He hears her with love.

This is the gentle confidence we are invited to carry in our hearts. No prayer is too small when placed in her hands. No burden is too heavy when entrusted to her care. She gathers our needs quietly and brings them before Jesus, not with urgency or fear, but with a calm and perfect love.

And so, as we begin this reflection, let us rest in that peace: we are not alone. We are remembered, we are loved, and we are always being led—softly and surely—closer to her Son.

A Quiet Confidence in Our Blessed Mother

There is something deeply consoling for us to remember as we go about our days, especially when we feel weak or unsure of ourselves. Holy Mother Mary is never far away. She does not forget us, nor does she grow distant. Rather, she stands always before her divine Son, looking upon Him with love, and gently presenting our needs to Him.

The saints remind us of this beautiful truth with great clarity. They tell us that whoever does not recognize Mary as the Mother of God does not yet fully share in the life God desires to give. For she is not only His Mother, but also a motherly refuge for us. She remains always in His presence, never ceasing to pray for those who are burdened by sin or sorrow.

And so we are encouraged with simple and childlike trust: take your refuge in the glorious Virgin Mary, and do so without any doubt. For it is certain—most certain—that the Son listens to His Mother. When she speaks, He hears her with love.

This is the gentle confidence we are invited to carry in our hearts. No prayer is too small when placed in her hands. No burden is too heavy when entrusted to her care. She gathers our needs quietly and brings them before Jesus, not with urgency or fear, but with a calm and perfect love.

And so, as we begin this reflection, let us rest in that peace: we are not alone. We are remembered, we are loved, and we are always being led—softly and surely—closer to her Son.

The Heart of a Mother and the Heart of Her Son

 

As we continue gently into the fourth day of the beautiful month of May, our thoughts rest in a special way on the heart of Our Blessed Mother. This is a month given to her, and so each day invites us to come a little closer and understand her love more deeply.

In that sacred moment when Mary gave her “yes” to become the Mother of God, she also accepted—quietly and completely—to become the Mother of all who would be saved. From the very beginning, she carried us within her loving heart, just as she carried Our Lord within her womb. This is something we can think about especially during these May days, when everything around us is growing and full of life.

The saints teach us that perfect love brings hearts so close together that they seem to become one. We see this in the early Christians, who were described as being “of one heart and one soul.” We hear it, too, in the words of St. Paul: “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” When love is this true, it unites lives in a quiet and beautiful way.

In a far more perfect and holy way, this was true of Mary and her divine Son. Her heart belonged entirely to Jesus, and His life filled her completely. She did not live for herself, but for Him who lived within her. Everything in her—her thoughts, her love, her whole being—was turned toward Him.

Because of this, there has never been a mother who loved her child as Mary loved Jesus, nor a Son who loved His mother as Our Lord loved her. Their love is pure and perfect, greater than any love we can fully understand, even surpassing that of the angels and saints.

And so, during this fourth day of May, we are invited to rest in that love. The simple names “Mother” and “Son” become something very deep and beautiful when we think of Mary and Jesus. In them, we see a love that welcomes us, holds us close, and reminds us that we, too, are part of that tender bond.

When we turn to Our Blessed Mother in this month dedicated to her, we may do so with great confidence. The heart that was so perfectly united to her Son is also a heart that watches over us with quiet care. Day by day in May, she gently leads us closer to Jesus.

And perhaps today, on this fourth day, we may simply whisper a small prayer:

Dear Mother Mary, keep me close to your heart, and lead me always to Jesus.

Drawn Gently Toward Heaven: Mary, Our Mother and Guide

Our holy Mother Mary does not leave us to find our way alone. She goes before us, quietly and faithfully, leading us toward Heaven. And when she reaches her heavenly home, she is welcomed with such love and brightness that it makes our hearts hopeful—that we, too, may one day follow where she has gone.

Because she is our Mother, we are not afraid to call after her with trust: “Draw us with you, and we will run after you.” There is something very tender in this. We do not run ahead on our own strength. We follow her. She draws us gently, as a mother takes the hand of her child and leads the way.

God, in His goodness, has given her to us as our helper on the journey. She has been sent to us as our advocate, one who speaks for us with love. And because she is the Mother of our Judge, she is also the Mother of Mercy—never harsh, never distant, but always ready to help.

She cares for the work of our salvation with a quiet but powerful love. She does not grow weary of us. She does not turn away. Instead, she continues, patiently and faithfully, to guide us, to pray for us, and to lead us closer to her Son.

So we need not be troubled or uncertain. If we stay close to her, she will surely bring us safely home.

May our hearts be simple enough to follow, and trusting enough to be led.

 

A Little Night Prayer

A Little Night Prayer to Our Blessed Mother

Dear Mother Mary,

as the day comes to its quiet end,

I come to you softly.


You are so gentle and full of love,

a shining light when everything grows dim,

and a sweet comfort in the stillness of night.


When my heart feels tired,

you draw me close

and let me rest near you,

as a child rests safely beside her mother.


You are so pure and so beautiful,

living now with God in Heaven,

high above the angels—

and still you remember me.


Dear Mother,

please ask your Son Jesus

to forgive me for anything I did wrong today,

and make my heart clean and peaceful again.


Stay near me through the night.

Watch over me while I sleep.

Keep me safe,

and lead me always closer to Jesus.


And if I wake in the quiet darkness,

help me remember

that Heaven is near,

and you are watching over me.


Help me to love God more tomorrow,

and one day to praise Him with the angels,

forever in Heaven.


Good night, dear Mother.

Stay with me.


Amen.


Good night, dear Jesus…

Good night, dear Mother…

For Mary's Intercession

 
When we lift our hearts to God, it is most fitting that we go by way of Our Blessed Mother. For she receives even the smallest of our prayers with a tenderness that makes them beautiful, and she offers them to God with a love greater than our own. In this way, she stands as a gentle and faithful messenger between our souls and Heaven.

St. Alphonsus Liguori reminds us that Mary has been given to all as a loving helper, ever ready to intercede for her children. She keeps nothing for herself, but shares freely the graces entrusted to her by God. Like a devoted mother, she watches over each soul with care, desiring that none be lost, but that all may be safely led to her Son.

We need never hesitate to go to her. In moments of weakness, she strengthens us. When our prayers feel uncertain, she guides them quietly and surely. And when we entrust ourselves to her care, she draws us ever closer to Jesus.

Let us, then, especially in this blessed Month of Mary, turn to her with confidence and love, knowing that she listens always—and never turns us away.

The First Light of May: A Reflection on Our Blessed Mother

 

As the first day of May dawns upon us, we are reminded of the quiet beauty of morning light. It comes gently, yet with certainty, telling us that the darkness has passed. In much the same way, the coming of the Blessed Virgin Mary into the world marked the beginning of hope for all mankind.

The saints have long taught us to see Our Lady as this tender dawn—she who heralds the coming of Christ, the true Light. Through her, God began to unfold His plan of mercy, turning our sorrow toward consolation and our wandering hearts back toward Him.

In His goodness, the Lord has given Mary to us as a refuge. She is not distant, but near—attentive to every soul who calls upon her. Especially for those who feel the weight of their sins, she is a gentle advocate, seeking for them the grace of forgiveness and a peaceful return to God.

Countless souls have already found their way home through her loving intercession. And so, at the beginning of this Month of Mary, we are invited to draw close to her with confidence, trusting that she will lead us safely to her Son.

May this first day of May be a quiet beginning—a turning of the heart toward Our Lady, who never fails to guide us with a mother’s care.

Night Prayer

 

A Little Night Prayer to Our Blessed Mother

Dear Mother Mary,

as the day comes to its quiet end,

I come to you softly.


You are so gentle and full of love,

a shining light when everything grows dim,

and a sweet comfort in the stillness of night.


When my heart feels tired,

you draw me close

and let me rest near you,

as a child rests safely beside her mother.


You are so pure and so beautiful,

living now with God in Heaven,

high above the angels—

and still you remember me.


Dear Mother,

please ask your Son Jesus

to forgive me for anything I did wrong today,

and make my heart clean and peaceful again.


Stay near me through the night.

Watch over me while I sleep.

Keep me safe,

and lead me always closer to Jesus.


And if I wake in the quiet darkness,

help me remember

that Heaven is near,

and you are watching over me.


Help me to love God more tomorrow,

and one day to praise Him with the angels,

forever in Heaven.


Good night, dear Mother.

Stay with me.


Amen.


Good night, dear Jesus…

Good night, dear Mother…