Meditations on the Joyful Mysteries – Women in Salvation History

International Women’s Day

March 8, 2025

International Day of Conscience

April 5, 2025

Meditations on the Joyful Mysteries – Women in Salvation History

March 9, 2025

Meditations on the Joyful Mysteries – Women in Salvation History (click for Translations)

March 9, 2025

Meditations on the Joyful Mysteries – Women in Salvation History

(For International Women’s Day)

On this International Women’s Day, may these meditations inspire us to embrace the virtues of Mary, Elizabeth, Anna, and all holy women, following their faith, joy, and love in our own lives. May we recognize the dignity, strength, and beauty of every woman, seeing in them the reflection of God’s love and the unique role they play in His divine plan.

1. The Annunciation – Mary, the Woman of Faith

“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

Mary’s yes to God was an act of deep faith and trust. She teaches us that true strength is found in surrender to God’s will. Unlike Eve, who doubted and took what was forbidden, Mary believed and received God’s promise with humility. In her, we see that true greatness comes from listening to God and allowing His word to take root in our lives. St. Augustine reminds us: “Mary first conceived Christ in her heart by faith before she conceived Him in her womb.” (Sermon 215) True discipleship begins in the heart. May we, like Mary, allow God to work through our faith and trust in Him, embracing the path He sets before us.

2. The Visitation – Elizabeth, the Woman of Joy

“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42)

Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognizes the presence of Christ in Mary. This encounter between two women reveals the power of sisterhood, encouragement, and joy. Elizabeth did not envy Mary’s role but rejoiced in her calling, showing that a woman’s heart is fullest when it lifts others up. Her words remind us to affirm and support one another. St. Augustine teaches: “In loving our neighbor, we complete our joy in God.” (Commentary on 1 John) How do we support and rejoice with the women around us? Do we, like Elizabeth, acknowledge the gifts of others and celebrate them with a sincere heart? Today, let us practice the virtue of encouragement, recognizing the beauty and dignity of every woman we meet.

3. The Nativity – Mary, the Woman of Motherhood

“She gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger.” (Luke 2:7)

Mary welcomes Jesus into the world with love and humility, embodying the beauty of maternal care. She gives birth in poverty, yet the world is enriched by her Son. Every mother, whether biological or spiritual, shares in this sacred calling to nurture and protect life. The labor of love and the sacrifices of women often go unnoticed, but in Mary, we see their profound value. St. Augustine reflects: “He was created of a mother whom He created.” (Sermon 184) This paradox reminds us that God works through human cooperation. Mary’s motherhood speaks to the dignity of every woman who nurtures, protects, and gives life in countless ways, be it through motherhood, mentorship, or acts of compassion. Let us honor the women who bring life, both physically and spiritually, into our world.

4. The Presentation in the Temple – Anna, the Woman of Prayer

“She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.” (Luke 2:37)

Anna’s life was dedicated to prayer and awaiting the Messiah. She reminds us of the power of a woman’s perseverance in faith. Though she was widowed young, she did not lose hope but turned her life into a living prayer. In her, we see the importance of steadfast devotion, especially in the later years of life. She did not leave the temple, not because she was confined, but because she had found her true home in the presence of God. St. Augustine encourages us: “Faithful prayer is the foundation of every good work.” (Letter 130) Anna’s life reminds us that God sees and cherishes the silent, prayerful hearts of women who intercede for the world. May we, like Anna, remain steadfast in prayer, trusting that our faithfulness will bear fruit in God’s perfect time.

5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple – Mary, the Woman of Seeking

“Your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” (Luke 2:48)

Mary and Joseph searched for Jesus, experiencing the sorrow and joy of seeking and finding Him. This moment speaks to every woman who has ever searched for meaning, for purpose, or for the presence of God in difficult times. It is easy to feel lost, to wonder where God is in our struggles. Mary, too, knew this longing. Yet, when she found Jesus, He reminded her that He was about His Father’s work. St. Augustine reflects: “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” (Confessions 1.1) Our restless hearts will only find peace when they find Christ. Mary teaches us that seeking Christ is not in vain – He is always present, even when we do not immediately understand His ways. May every woman seek Christ in her daily life, knowing that He is always near, guiding and calling her deeper into His love.

In conclusion, I wish to borrow the words of Dorothy Day, a tireless advocate for the dignity and strength of women in her time:

“Women’s bodies, heavy with children, dragged down by children, are a weight like a cross to be carried about. From morning until night they are preoccupied with cares, but it is care for others, for the duties God has given them.”

May we never cease to cherish and uphold the dignity of women, recognizing their immeasurable contributions to the flourishing of humanity. In this ever-changing world, may their strength, love, and sacrifice be honored, celebrated, and safeguarded as the foundation of a more just and compassionate society.

In Deum,

Rev. Fr. Victor Fernandez Gonzaga, OSA