If You Love Mary, Imitate Her
“If you love Mary, imitate her.” These simple yet deep words became the heart of the celebration as we honour the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast that holds a special place in the life and spirituality of our Congregation.
This is an invitation to look beyond expressions of devotion and to embrace the virtues that made Mary the first and perfect disciple of Christ.
Loving Mary Through the Way We Live
Reflecting on the feast, we are reminded that love for Mary is not measured only by prayers, hymns, or beautiful words, but by a sincere commitment to imitate her life.
“It is easy to say, ‘I love you, Mother Mary.’ But Mary would be happier if she could see something of herself in us—her humility, kindness, simplicity, prayerfulness, trust in God, forgiveness, and generous love.”
Mary’s life is a school of discipleship. Her “yes” to God was expressed not only in words but in a life of faithful service, quiet courage, and complete trust in God’s plan. She teaches every Christian, and especially every OLA Sister, how to welcome Christ into the world through everyday acts of love and service.
A Feast at the Heart of the OLA Family
For us, Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, the feast of Mary’s Nativity carries a deep significance. It is a day to renew our Marian identity and missionary vocation, inspired by the woman whose life continues to guide the Congregation’s mission of evangelisation.
As daughters of Mary, we are called to reflect her presence wherever we are sent—to be women of compassion, hope, and joyful witness among the people we serve.
This celebration is also a moment of thanksgiving for the many Sisters who have professed their religious vows on this Marian feast throughout the history of the Congregation, including those celebrating significant jubilees of religious profession this year, especially for Sr. Paula Maria, who celebrates 75 years of Religious Vows.
Becoming More Like Mary
We are all left with this simple question: What part of Mary can others see in me?
To imitate Mary is to choose humility over pride, kindness over indifference, simplicity over excess, prayer over anxiety, trust over fear, and forgiveness over resentment. These virtues continue to shape missionary disciples who bring Christ’s love to the world.
As the OLA family celebrates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may this feast inspire us all to deepen our love for Mary by becoming more like her every day.
Holy Mary, Our Lady of Apostles, pray for us and help us to imitate your life of faithful love and joyful service.