Forgive us our sins

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Ever notice how many of the Rosary prayers are plural, rather than singular?

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name….

Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.

I have to confess that I’ve always thought of this as me talking about myself, along with others who are also talking about themselves. But there may be a different way.

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Poor banished children

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Jesus warned us that the door to heaven is very narrow.

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate,
for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter
but will not be strong enough.
After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door,
then will you stand outside knocking and saying,
‘Lord, open the door for us.’
He will say to you in reply,
‘I do not know where you are from.

Luke 13:22-25

I could despair of ever being able to get there!

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Us

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I firmly believe that we’re here to help each other.

There are many times when it feels like I’m on a lonely journey, it’s about ME finding my holy path and getting to heaven. But Jesus made it clear that it’s not just about loving God, but loving each other.

Love your enemies and do good to them,
and lend expecting nothing back;
then your reward will be great
and you will be children of the Most High,
for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Luke 27:37
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Virgin Mary

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Our mother Mary was, herself, born without sin. That’s why this feast day is about Mary’s conception, not that of Jesus.

One explanation that I’ve heard of this is that the Ark of the Covenant must be unblemished. And since Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant, Jesus, it is appropriate that she also be unblemished.

So it’s about faith, not scientific proof. And I’m quite fine with that.

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