In her way... towards the Way

Mary is the model of the disciples who follow Jesus step by step, so that he may relive in them. From Mary, we learn the style of Christian contemplation. It is not an escape from the world, but a training of treasuring Jesus’ words in our hearts, so that, at the right moment, they may bear fruit in our life. Mary did just that. According to the evangelist Luke, “she treasured all these things (the words and deeds of Jesus), and pondered them in her heart” (see Lk 2:19).

With heart filled with gratitude to Mary, to honor her in this very special day dedicated to her nativity, I am posting an icon reffered to as HODIGITRIA, with a brief explanation.


HODIGITRIA means 'Pointer of the Way' or 'Guide of the Church.' This style is associated with Mary's words at the wedding feast of Cana, "Do whatever he tells you." The mother points to her child as if to say, look at him, not me. Wearing a veil with three stars, on her forehead and each shoulder to signify that she is ever-Virgin, Mary's attitude is one of majesty. Christ is pictured as a small but mature person who looks straight at us and blesses us. This is an icon which portrays the dogma of the Theotokos, the one who bears God. The Greek letters are an abbreviation referring to the Mother of God and Jesus Christ. According to legend, the first Hodigitria was painted by St. Luke.

Happy Birthday Mary, Pray for us...now and at the hour of our death.