How do we know Mary was free? For me, the biggest sign that she was free is that she wasn’t afraid to show her fear. Somehow that fear must have been shown, because Gabriel said, ‘Do not be afraid.’ The ability to show your fear, the ability to be vulnerable in the face of something that is disorienting – Are we free enough to allow ourselves to be that transparent?
Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, our patroness.
Our celebrations began with Solemn Evening Prayer and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament last night, with Deacon Ryan Adorjan (4T Joliet) presiding and preaching.
A Multilingual praying of the rosary was followed by Praise and Worship with Confessions before Night Prayer was led by Deacon Robinson Ortiz (4T Chicago).
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continued throughout the entire night until Morning Prayer and Benediction this morning, with Deacon Michael Bremer (4T Atlanta) presiding.
The entire university community gathered together for Solemn Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, with Father John Kartje, our rector, presiding. Celebrations conclude, liturgically, with Deacon Edgar Elamparo (4T San Jose) presiding over evening prayer tonight.
Mary’s presence is visible throughout campus: the grotto, the Column of the Immaculate Conception at the center of campus, and the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception itself, which noticeably lacks a statue of Mary because the entire structure was built in her honor. Father Kartje’s homily from today explains in further detail why we are so thankful to our Mother, today and always.
