5451(II)_Mary took my hands - Assumption meditations by CDB

5451(II)_Mary took my hands - Assumption meditations by CDB

August 23, 2020

By Volunteers with Don Bosco (CDB-Con Don Bosco)


CDB Philippines, 22 August 2020 -- So far the only CDB group in Asia (both EAO and South Asia regions), located in the Philippines, is preparing for their first profession as consecrated Salesians in the world (secular consecration). For the 3 days before the Feast of the Assumption (15 August) all of them were reflecting on their relationship with Mary, Mother of Jesus. Their full sharing - reflection is available on Boscolink, but here we report some highlights. Those who are interested in the Salesian secular consecrated vocation may contact Fr Eli Cruz, SDB (Canlubang, FIN).


Some sharing about 'walking with Mary in faith':


In the corporate world, it is seldom that we talk about religion and Mary. But through observing and listening to the stories of my peers during casual conversations, I get to have an idea, that at some point, they have a connection with Mary. During meetings, I would observe that some of my peers are wearing wrist rosaries and others have scapulars. These signs have always been an opportunity for me to have a quick chat about their spirituality. It starts by me verbally noticing their rosary and scapular, then they start sharing their novena, prayer intentions, and devotion to the Blessed Mother like going to Baclaran every Wednesday (=Manila famous shrine, with a weekly Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help). It makes me smile every time they would voluntarily share their spirituality, prayer intentions, and devotion to the Blessed Mother. Talking about it made us more connected and enabled us to journey with one another through sharing of experiences.


Pope Francis in his Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit 44, referred to the Blessed Virgin Mary as an “influencer, the influencer of God”. She was able to influence the plan of God in bringing forth salvation to the people. In the same way, looking into the influence of the Blessed Virgin Mary in my life, I am able to attend to the needs of other people most especially of the young by exemplifying her virtues of:


  • Simplicity through words and actions. The people of today need witnesses that can walk their talk. Following the example of Mary she led her life of simplicity by tuning herself with the things that are essential and enduring.
  • Presence by being physically or spiritually present. The youth needs someone that can journey with them. Given the circumstances that we have today, our virtual presence needs also to be visible. Following the example of Mary even if pondering it on our own.
  • Influence in leading the young under my care towards God. I am an instrument that nourishes and shapes the entirety of a person through their head by filling it with knowledge and understanding. Through their heart by filling it with love and through their hands in doing the work of God."

    • Every good reflection starts with few simple questions, also this time our CDB members were helped by their Assistant:


    Mary as Seeker of God

    How do these words resonate with me: She took me by the hand?

    In all simplicity I can assure you that I have never tired of that hand; indeed I have always held it tightly, to the end.


    Mary as Expert in Encounter

    How does my connection to Mary connect me to the simple faith of people in their urgent needs of young students or young professionals?


    Mary as Guide in Humanity

    How does my devotion to Mary bring me closer to the Salesian Family growing in sensitivity to the culture of human rights?


    Full text of the Mary Assumption sharing (CDB-Philippines)