"We are told from the very beginning, man has been created 'male and female' (Gen 1:27). Scripture itself provides the interpretation of this fact: even though man is surrounded by the innumerable creatures of the created world, he realizes that he is alone (cf. Gen 2:20). God intervenes in order to help him escape from this situation of solitude: 'It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him' (Gen 2:18). The creation of woman is thus marked from the outset by the principle of help: a help which is not one-sided but mutual." (Letter to Women 7)
During the beautiful time of this novena, we have the chance to really meditate on the mystery of the Immaculate Conception: Mary conceived in the womb of St. Anne completely and totally without original sin. God in his abundant grace created her spotless, without blemish. She is for us a "New Eve," showing us what should have been "from the beginning."
One of the ways Mary embodies the New Eve is through this role as "helpmate" bestowed on the first Eve. Indeed, throughout the history of the Church, the title of "help" has been bestowed upon her (Mother of Perpetual Help; Mary, Help of Christians). We go to her and ask for her help because she is our mother. She sees our need and hastens to the throne of God with our prayers. Likewise, she is there with us through out all of our times of need. When we call upon her, she removes the shroud of loneliness. Her very presence as Mother of the Church gives us companionship, for "it is not good that man should be alone." From the very beginning, God included Mary in His plan of salvation to be with us. She walks with us as she walked with her Son Jesus up to Calvary. She visits us in our need as she visited her cousin Elizabeth. She searches for us as she searched for Jesus in the temple.
This Advent, allow Mary to be with you. Allow her to be your help in preparing for her Son. (Reflection by Mary Janeczko)
"O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."
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