May 2010

"Do you love Me?...Feed My lambs!"
John 21:15

Dear Friend of the Marianists,

In the 40 days of Easter and before Jesus’ Ascension into Heaven, which we celebrate in May this year, Jesus spent time with His disciples, preparing them for their apostolic ministries.  While preparing his disciples to go and preach to all peoples, Jesus spoke the words above to Peter.

Three times Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me?”  Each time Peter answers that he does love Jesus and each time, Jesus replies, “Feed My lambs.”

In Jesus’ conversation with Peter, some profound and beautiful things happen.  Peter had denied Jesus three times.   By asking Peter if He loves Him, Jesus actually reassures Peter that he is forgiven.  Jesus thus makes clear Peter’s place in Christ’s ministry.

As we bring the Easter season to a close with the feasts of the Ascension and Pentecost, we also find Mary, the faithful mother of Jesus, present with the disciples.  Not only did Mary give birth to Jesus, she also witnessed Pentecost and the birth of the Church.

So, along with the Ascension and Pentecost in May, we celebrate special feasts of Mary.  Two Marian feasts of the Church are in May: Our Lady of Fatima (May 13) and the Visitation (May 31).  There are also two Marianist celebrations during the month: Mary, Mother of Graces and Mediatrix (May 12) and Mary, Help of Christians (May 25).  These feasts are important historical moments for the Society of Mary and the Marianist Sisters. Let us celebrate all these feasts and dedicate ourselves, like Peter to feed Jesus’ lambs.

On Mother’s Day, then, let us pray in gratitude for all mothers, mothers-to-be, and all who have loved us like a mother, loved us as one of Jesus’ lambs.

In Christ,

Father Patrick J. Tonry, SM
Spiritual Director