As we began our Lenten journey on Ash Wednesday, may Christ continue to guide and strengthen us in prayer. May this be a time of healing, renewal, and a deeper closeness with the God who suffers with us and raises us to new life.
“This March, as we journey with Jesus and Mary through the Paschal Mystery, we can find hope and even joy in its darkest hour by staying close to Mary and receiving from her the inner strength which will lead us on the great moment of hope-the RESURRECTION!” [Mission of Love- Sr Mary Scanlon, LCM]
I deeply appreciate the wealth of resources, publications, Congregational Journals and spiritual reflections written by the LCM Sisters, Associates, and Affiliates. As an Associate, these readings have been instrumental as a source of encouragement and inspiration to deepen my spiritual journey. This mission is rooted in love, respect, empathy, and compassion. The spiritual teachings of Venerable Mary Potter, passed down through generations, continue to touch our hearts and challenge us to pray daily for the suffering world in which we presently live.
With heartfelt gratitude, we honour the LCM Sisters and Associates of the Region of the Southern Cross, Australia and New Zealand, who have recently passed into eternal life. Sr Elizabeth (Liz) West LCM was talented in both writing and photography. Her photos are featured on cards which I have sent to family and friends. Each card contained a quote from Venerable Mary Potter. This excerpt is part of an article by Sr Liz. “Lent is the invitation to ‘turn back’, to take hold of the fact that we are the beloved children of God, drawn into intimacy, and formed for mission. Lent is really all about our Baptism, and its consequences. Far from being a time of gloom, Lent is meant to be a “springtime”, a time of growing intimacy with God – a breakthrough to grace and so to life.”
Sr Martina Rice, affectionately known as “Marty”, celebrated her Platinum Jubilee at Calvary Aged Care Ryde on 10 October. She described her ministry and journey as one dedicated to ‘prayer and care’. On 20 February, I watched the live stream of Sr Martina’s Requiem Mass, which took place at St Margaret Chapel in Ryde. Gathering with the Sisters, Sr Martina’s family, Bev, and friends reminded me of my time at Dalton Gardens for our LCM Associate Team Leadership Meetings.
Sr Kathleen’s eulogy provided a deeper understanding of Sr Martina’s worldwide ministry and her profound devotion to the Maternal Heart of Mary. Sr Martina had quoted Venerable Mary Potter: “We may not have much to give, but kind words and cheerful smiles.” I thought of these words when reading the text of Pope Leo’s message for Lent.
Pope Leo XIV encourages us “to practise a simple, often overlooked kind of abstinence: choosing not to use words that might offend or harm others. Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgement, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves.”
May this Lent be a very special time for all of us as we make the journey towards Calvary and join with Mary at the foot of the Cross. May we hold in our hearts the sure promise that suffering is not the end, and that new life awaits us in the light of the Resurrection.
We ask for blessings and support for the Sisters, the Greater Company of Mary, and their families who are experiencing illness and receiving medical care.