By Diann L. Neu, from “Come, Sister Wisdom: An Advent Blessing”


As we celebrate we focus on Mary, a renewed Mary, a woman who waited, had a vision, was a liberator and was wise as we are.


Reader 1: Praise to you, Holy One, Creator of the Universe
Breathe into us life and creativity.
Praise to you, Holy One, Liberator of the Oppressed
Free us to do the work of justice with peace.
Praise to you, Holy One, Healing Spirit
Enkindle us with passion.

Reader 2: Mary, woman of faith…guide us.
Woman of vision…
Woman of patience…
Woman of wisdom…
Woman of peace…
Woman filled with questions…
Woman of Truth…

Reader 1: Mary, Mother of the homeless…walk with us.
Mother of the disappeared…
Mother of those living with AIDS…
Mother of the sick and dying…
Unwed Mother…
Mother of battered and abused women…
Mother of hungry children…

Reader 2: Mary, model of persistence…pray with us.
Model of gracious hospitality…
Model of strength…
Model of independence…
Model of passion…
Model of risk…
Model of holy rage…

Reader 1: Mary, Liberator of the Oppressed…empower us.
Dawn of Justice…
Comforter of the Afflicted…
Provider of Sanctuary…
Sign of Contradiction…
Dreamer of New Possibilities…
Witness to Christ’s Resurrection…

Prayer: Mary, Beloved of Light, empower us with your Wisdom during these days of Advent. Teach us to see clearly that our vision may be light for the world. Inspire us to act justly, to love tenderly, to set ourselves free, and to heal the brokenhearted. Amen.