The Visitation

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  We honor that day when Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth who was also with child.  The visitation was more than just a simple get together between two loving cousins.  It was an encounter that carries tremendous meaning.  Mary went to see her cousin Elizabeth and was greeted by Elizabeth in a tender loving manner.  Elizabeth greeted Mary saying, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.  And how does this happen that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”  Mary’s encounter with Elizabeth gives us much to reflect on.  Let us remember as we greet one another this day and every day that we are meeting the face of Christ in one another.  Take time today to greet others in joy and happiness as you never know when your encounter will be richly blessed!

Pat Schifini, OSU