Love each other, have faith in God, seek comfort in Mary and let her lead us to Jesus!
Our Lady of Kibeho, pray for us!
Nov. 28th is her feast day!
When we think of Marian apparitions we think of France, Portugal, and Mexico, but today we recall those that took place between 1981 and 1989 in Africa. Officially recognized by the Vatican in 2001. Our Lady of Kibeho is the only Marian apparition site approved by the Catholic Church on the continent of Africa.
Through this apparition the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows of Mary was re-energized. Like the traditional rosary it’s repetitive and reflective nature is powerful, stirring, and fruitful. However, instead of five mysteries this Rosary, also called the Servite Rosary, focuses on each of the Seven Sorrows:
1. The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25-35)
2. The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15)
3. Loss of the Child Jesus for three days (Luke 2:41-50)
4. Mary meets Jesus on his way to Calvary (Luke 23:27-31; John 19:17)
5. Crucifixion and death of Jesus (John 19:25-30)
6. The body of Jesus being taken from the Cross (Luke 23:50-54; John 19:31-37)
7. The burial of Jesus (Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42; Mark 15:40-47)
These events in Mary’s life remind us that she can relate to everything a mother suffers. She had to leave her home to find safety, was filled with panic of losing track of a child, and was totally helpless as she watched her son be tortured, mercilessly mocked, and horrifically die upon the cross. We can pray to her, so she intercedes for us for she knows suffering like no other. She also is the ultimate example of faith, loyalty, hope, and love. Cry out to her in all sufferings now and at the hour of our death.
As you say each of the seven courses, walk along with Mary through her life as the young Mother of Jesus- our Blessed Mother.
Rwanda genocide survivor Immaculee’ Ilibagiza shared this story and prayer at retreat at St. James the Greater in Charles Town last summer.
“The Rosary of the Seven Sorrows contains all the power you need to change your life for the better, to obtain peace and happiness, to realize your true potential, fulfill all your dreams, and grow closer to God’s light,” Ilibagiza shared and is written in her Rosary of the Seven Sorrows guide.
For more about Our Lady of Kibeho, the Seven Sorrows Rosary, and Immaculee’ go to:
https://www.immaculee.com/pages/7-sorrows-rosary-prayer. There you will find images and complete directions on reciting the rosary.
