SACRAMENTALS

Hailing Mary

    I wish to thank The Catholic Faith publishers for their excellent May/June 1997 magazine with all of the fine articles regarding our Blessed Mother.
    One of the many events in reference to our Blessed Mother that I find to be an important observation is the reaction of St. Elizabeth during the visitation. It seems worthy to note that St. Elizabeth did not react to Mary’s honorable role with any jealousy or envy, but she reacted with humility and utmost respect. I feel this is an important lesson for everyone to observe, especially those Protestants that are too often critical toward Catholic reverence for the Mother of God.
    It is also interesting to note that neither St. Elizabeth nor our Blessed Mother felt it necessary to report this astonishing phenomenon to any of the local Rabbis. They were both content in allowing God to be the sole Creator of this divine revelation. They needed no audience but were satisfied with only those whom God chose it to be revealed.
    Mary’s purity is so evident when one ponders her humble reaction to such an awesome reality. And St. Elizabeth is certainly a model of perfection in how we should react to our Heavenly Queen. Indeed, our hearts should leap for joy in realizing that this lovely woman, model of pure love of God, is none other than our own mother, making human life seem that much more precious. There simply is not enough human words to express the love and gratitude that this reality should arouse.
    Once again, thank you for your publication, it is most enjoyable and a wonderful resource.
                    Valerie Terzi
Manhattan, Kansas

Cafeteria Catholics
    Why, may I inquire, when our society is immersed in this utter state of immorality, would many who would profess to be of the Faith, insist that the Church forego its teachings and traditions?
    We cannot play “cafeteria Catholic” if we wish to remain Roman Catholic. Far too many doubt or reject teachings of the Magisterium of the Church on the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the Immaculate Conception, the Trinity, marriage, abortion, contraception, fornication, euthanasia, confession, and purgatory. Does not the willful rejection of Catholic teachings cause “self-excommunication”? Let us not leave these people to peril, but help them attain true knowledge of the Faith, so they can make an informed decision. With sincere repentance, they will be welcomed back to the Church with open arms.
    Is this not the time to uphold our Catholic teachings and abide by them? Would this not also be the time for saints and saintly virtue? We need to be vigilant in our thoughts and actions, as not to offend God, in sin. When we fall, we must be earnest in our desire to overcome sin, so we may too share in God’s love. We need to encourage other to live ‘in the light of Christ. May we not lose patience with those who reject the message of Christ, but pray that they may open their hearts to Him.
    The Church is here to guide and nourish us on the path to righteousness. Alone we can do little; with God on our side, heaven is the ultimate. So, let us show Christ our steadfast devotion to His message. With humble hearts, let us strive for perfection.

Robert J. Hoey
Hampton, Minnesota

Credit Where Credit Is Due
    The cover of The Catholic Faith for July-August must represent the Assumption, with apostles and disciples at Mary’s grave.
    I looked in vain for St. Catherine and the Christ Child!
    Love your magazine nonetheless.

Elizabeth Daly
South Beach, New York

The Editor responds:

    You are absolutely correct. Our apologies. The credit for the front cover art should have read: Guido Reni. The Assumption of the Virgin. Scala/Art Resource, NY.

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