JOYFUL MYSTERIES

The Annunciation

Visualisation: Imagine Mary being caught off guard by the visit of the angel. Scripture scholars think she was probably about fifteen years old. Mary had her own doubts and fears. She was deeply troubled by his words. How can this happen to me? Picture the angel reassuring her that she was God's highly favoured daughter and that the Holy Spirit would come upon her.

Intention: For all those struggling to understand what it is God is asking of them.

Connection: The most important decision made by a human being was made by a teenager! Teenagers need support in struggling to make good choices in their lives. Maybe if they heard more affirmation, "You are God's daughter/son," their self esteem would lead to good choices.

The Visitation

Visualisation: Even though Mary has just agreed to something she doesn't fully understand, she sets out to visit her cousin Elizabeth! Imagine Mary setting out on a journey full of hope and anticipation. Imagine the joy between these two women that breaks out into the Magnificat. Picture Mary engaged in the most ordinary tasks as she stays three months to help her family out.

Intention: Instead of focussing on ourselves when we are confused, bewildered, or overwhelmed pray to go out of your way to help someone else. True vocation discernment leads to service in your parish or community.

Connection: Many pregnant women need support in our world! Mary spent three months with Elizabeth. Who do you know who might need your attention?

The Birth

Visualisation: Imagine Mary and Joseph being refused after a long journey. When God comes among us, as the Word becomes Flesh, it is in the simple, the poor, the ordinary places. A humble birth erupts into joyful songs of angels and visits from shepherds, simple folks.

Intention: Pray for those struggling to bring dreams to birth. They may encounter
rejection, poverty, and misunderstanding. Pray that you bring to birth in your life the dream God has for you.

Connection: Mary and Joseph were immigrants who could find no room at the inn. Who is refused a place to stay? Who are those strangers that are not welcomed?

The Presentation in the Temple

Visualisation: Imagine Mary and Joseph meeting the old man Simeon and his farewell song. "Now, Lord ,you can dismiss your servant for my eyes have seen your salvation." Picture Anna, the prophetess giving thanks to God for the child and talking about the impact he would have.

Intention: For those who need to remember to present their infants to God for Baptism and the blessing of the community. Pray for abused children.

Connection: A Vocation begins at Baptism. When you were presented to God the seed of your vocation began to sprout. How do you live out your Baptismal call? Who have been the elderly mentors in your vocation? Who has been Simeon or Anna for you?

The Finding in the Temple

Visualisation: Imagine Mary and Joseph panicking having lost their only son. See Jesus at the beginning of his adolescence finding his way among the teachers in the temple. Hear him say "Why did you search for me? Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?" Imagine his parents' confusion. Yet, he went back home with them and was obedient.

Intention: For parents whose children have run away or are lost in life. For those with a vocation who are impatient to serve God and have to wait for some reason.

Connection: Perhaps your parents are not yet ready for the work you feel God calls you to do. Vocation Directors may ask candidates to work on some issues first before entering a formation program. Jesus grew in age, grace and wisdom. That growth is a process that takes time in all of us.