The faith of our fathers - Carmel Apologetics

""THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY. 215fulfilled the divine precepts better than Mary, whokept all the words of her Son, pondering them inher heart ? any man minister to me," says ourSaviour, him will My Father honor." Who ministered more constantly to Jesus than Mary, who discharged towards Him all the offices of a tendermother ?Heroes and statesmen may receive the highestmilitary and civic honors which a nation can bestow,without being suspected of invading the domain ofthe glory which is due to God. Now, is not heroicsanctity more worthy of admiration than civil serviceand military exploits, inasmuch as religion rankshigher than patriotism and valor And ?yet the admirers of Mary s exalted virtues can scarcely celebrate her praises without being accused in certainquarters of Mariolatry.When a nation wishes to celebrate the memory ofits distinguished men, its admiration is not confinedto words, but vents itself in a thousand differentshapes. See in how manv ways we honor the memory of Washington. Monuments on which his gooddeeds are recorded, are erected to his name. Thegrounds where his remains repose on the banks ofthe Potomac, are kept in order by a volunteer bandof devoted ladies, who adorn the place with flowers.And this cherished spot is annually visited by thousands of pilgrims from the most remote sections of1John xii. 26.