Nuestra Senora dela Merced

Today we celebrated the feast of Our Lady under the title of Nuestra Senora dela Merced (Lady of Mercy). She is also called Our Lady of Ransom. This devotion began in Spain of which She became the principal patroness of Barcelona and in some parts of Italy. It is believed that the Blessed Virgin Mary in white scapular appeared to St. Peter Nolasco and with St. Raymond Penafort., founded the Order of Mercedarians who cared primarily for the oppressed, the chained, and those in prison.

The celebration reminds us of how powerful the prayers of the Blessed Mother are. She care for her sons and daughters whom Jesus entrusted to her, "Woman, behold your son..." What else could Jesus give while hanging on the cross but her own mother, the very last person He had during that time. Yes, Jesus Christ did give His all to us, even to the point of giving up His own mother.

PRAYER

Mary, our Mother of Mercy,

the fullness of God’s own mercy dwells in you.

With the eyes of a mother, look upon your sons.

Intercede for everyone who suffers in body or soul

and for all who are enslaved in mind or spirit.

We give ourselves to you totally-ind, heart and senses.

Keep them and help us always to be a sign of God’s love.

Reveal to us what it means to be yours,

and teach us to live in that same generosity

with which you responded to the grace of Jesus our Redeemer. Amen.