Chaplain’s Corner – May ’25 – Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon

The Blessed Virgin Mary

The Visitation is a Biblical story from the New Testament about Mary, who is expecting Jesus, visiting her cousin Elizabeth, who is also pregnant with John the Baptist. When Mary greets her, John jumps in Elizabeth’s womb, and Elizabeth joyfully calls Mary blessed, recognizing her as the Mother of the Lord. Mary responds by singing a beautiful hymn of praise and gratitude.

This story showcases the power of strong, faithful friendships among women. I am so thankful for the amazing support from the women in my life. Mary inspires me to nurture those friendships and that helps me grow closer to God.

Do you know a woman who could really use a little “visitation” right now? Why not reach out? Call a friend, send a quick text, write a note, or plan a get-together. We women truly need each other! Our catch-ups might not last three months like Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, but let’s not forget how uplifting and encouraging our friendships can be.

Melissa McCoy

Melissa McCoy
Maryville Chaplain

May Notes

Mass is open to residents, families and friends. It is offered at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Sunday to Friday. Residents and families can also tune to Maryville channel 63 to participate from their rooms.
Liturgical color – White through the 50 days of Easter. Extended to include Trinity Sunday and Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Green for ordinary time
May 1 – Optional Memorial for St. Joseph the Worker
May 11 – Mother’s Day
May 13 – Optional Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima
May 26 – Optional Memorial of St. Joan of Arc
May 31 – Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

St. Joseph the Worker

Joseph, the devoted husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus, exemplifies a figure we can honor and celebrate. As a patron of workers and laborers, he embodies the spirit of everyday labor.

Instituted by Pope Pius XII in 1955, this feast day highlights the profound value of our daily work within families, workplaces, and our service to God. Pope John Paul II beautifully expressed, “Work was the daily expression of love in the life of the Family of Nazareth.”

The Gospel reveals Joseph’s role as a carpenter, showcasing the dignity of human work and the significance of manual labor at his workbench with Jesus.

Reflection:

Do you perceive your work as holy?
Embrace the truth that your labor — your “daily expression of love” — holds deep meaning.

Statue jeanne arc place pyramides paris 4 (cropped)

St. Joan of Arc

Joan was born in the village of Domrémy, France. From a young age, she started having visions and hearing voices that she believed were messages from God, guiding her on a special mission to help save her country, France. At just 17 years old, Joan bravely led the French army to a victory at the siege of Orléans, breaking the English siege and lifting the spirits of the French people. After this inspiring win, she met with the Dauphin, the future King Charles VII, and encouraged him to claim his rightful spot on the throne.

Joan’s journey continued as she led the army to Reims, where the momentous occasion of Charles VII’s coronation took place. Sadly, despite her achievements, Joan was captured by the English and their French allies. She faced accusations of heresy and witchcraft, and tragically, she was burned at the stake in Rouen in 1431.

Good news came 25 years after her execution when Joan was officially cleared of all charges and recognized as a saint in 1920. Today, she is celebrated as a beloved national heroine of France and a powerful symbol of courage and devotion.

Chaplain’s Corner – May ’25