A Priceless Treasure

A reflection by Joe Galea (SDC Member) on the painting 'The Madonna of the Village', 1938-42, Marc Chagall, oil on canvas, 102cm x 98cm, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid. Marc Chagall, born in Russia in 1887 and passing away in 1986, is recognized as a key figure in the surrealist and expressionist movements. This painting offers an unusual depiction of Mary holding her son, Jesus. It appears to be set during a likely Russian journey, evoking the painter's nostalgia for his childhood, despite spending much of his career in France and America. Mary is entirely dressed in white, a color symbolizing purity and virginity, which is a rare portrayal. In Malta, a similar depiction can be found in the titular painting of the parish of Bormla. As with many of Chagall's works, this painting is rich in symbolism and dreamy imagination. Notice the flying cow playing the violin, a recurring element in Chagall's art. Additionally, a candle stands tall on the journey, possibly symbolizing faith and love in Mary and Jesus. Mary does not have the typical halo; instead, a person in red extends a hand from the sky, offering her a heartfelt kiss. Traditional elements like angels playing and singing are also present in the painting.  

Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety by Henri Nouwen is a profound and deeply reflective book that speaks to the heart of contemporary struggles. Nouwen's writing is both comforting and challenging, inviting readers to deeply consider the teachings of Jesus in their own lives. The book is structured around key themes such as faith, love, and community, offering practical insights into how these principles can alleviate modern anxieties. Nouwen's gentle and compassionate tone makes complex theological concepts accessible and relatable. Each chapter provides a blend of personal anecdotes, scriptural analysis, and contemplative reflections, creating a rich and engaging reading experience. The book's emphasis on the journey of faith as a continual process of growth and discovery resonates strongly in today's fast-paced world. Nouwen's insights are particularly poignant for those feeling lost or overwhelmed by life's demands. His invitation to follow Jesus is presented not as a strict doctrine but as a path to inner peace and fulfillment. Overall, "Following Jesus" is a deeply moving and inspiring book that offers solace and guidance to anyone seeking a more meaningful and centered life.

From the writing of St George Preca, The Psalm of Father Franco, Carmelite The soul that comes to know you, God, is always happy with her lot for in you she sees the governance of everything. Abel came to know you: he fell victim of envy for the honour he offered you. Job came to know you: he embraced your will proclaiming that all is willed by you except sin. Abraham, our father, came to know you: in sacrifice he gave his heart and his son in order to please you. Joseph, son of Jacob, came to know you: he declared that nothing can hinder the designs of your providence. Moses came to know you: he sang the glory of your greatness — Lord, Master of everything and everyone. Samuel came to know you: he declared that where there is no obedience nothing pleases you. David came to know you: and rivers of tears poured out of his contrite heart. Elijah came to know you: he zealously laboured to make you known among men. Daniel came to know you, proclaiming that those who trust in you see no confusion. The saints, our brethren, coming to know you, worthily revered you. They did not seek themselves in anything. You were their only delight. They underwent oppressions in order to serve you faithfully. The glorious Virgin Mary, coming to know you, magnified you and proclaimed you mighty and holy. Joseph, the husband so chaste of Mary, coming to know you, adored in the silence and the purity of his heart the just and unfathomable decrees of your providence. Paul of Tarsus came to know you and your Son Jesus Christ, and proclaimed you both throughout the world. Sinners resist you because they have not come to know you. Were they to know you truly, they would even give up their lives for you! Did not Mary Magdalene, Zaccheus, the Samaritan woman, and the other sinners who came to know you give up all for you, keeping nothing to themselves? That is why the soul that comes to know you, though heaped with sin, hastens to you never to shy away.

Evening Prayer to Mary by  Père Claude Wittock   O Virgin, it is getting late, all is falling asleep on earth: It is the hour of rest. Do not abandon me! Place your hand on my eyes, like a sweet Mother, Close them gently to the things of the world. My soul is weary with thoughts and sorrows; The work awaits me, close at hand. Place your hand on my forehead, and take away all worries: My rest will be sweet and blessed by you. So that tomorrow, your humble child may wake up stronger, And joyfully embrace the burden of the day. Place your hand on my heart to keep its gaze on God, And renew its eternal love.

Be inspired by these exemplary figures and turn to Our Lady of the Rosary with the prayer she cherishes most! St. Dominic, the promoter of the Rosary, used to pray the fifteen mysteries of the Rosary eight times a day, totaling one hundred and twenty prayers. St. Charles Borromeo used to recited the Rosary on his knees, often urging others: "Say the Rosary every day, or as much as you can!" St Francis de Sales devoted an hour each day to the Rosary and, on his deathbed, requested that the Rosary be wrapped around his arm, advising: "Never part from the Rosary and always keep it with you!" St Philip Neri used to keep a Rosary by his bed so he could start praying it as soon as he wake up. When St. John Berchmans was nearing death, he held the Crucifix, a Rosary, and the Rule of Life, saying: "These are the three things I love, and with them, I will die happy." Saint Paul of the Cross never siezed praying the Rosary. When advised not to pray it due to shortness of breath, he responded: "I want to keep praying it until I die, and when I can't say it verbally, I'll pray it in my heart." St. Alphonsus Liguori stated: "Anyone who loves Mary can be considered blessed in this world and have great hope of salvation. And who loves Mary? Those who honor her with the prayer she favors most, which is the Holy Rosary."

Carlo Carretto was an Italian priest and writer who served as the president of Catholic Action. He joined the Little Brothers of the Gospel of Charles de Foucauld and spent ten years in solitude in Algeria. This book is the product of his reflections during that time. In its pages, we find a tender conversation between the author and Mother Mary, where she responds to the intimate questions posed by Carretto. The essence of their dialogue can be summarized in the sentence: “Yes, it was easier to concieve him (Jesus) in the body than to accept him in faith!". To grasp this concept, we must let go of the image of Mary depicted as queen on the altar and instead see her as "our sister," a "simple, humble, poor girl," unknown to anyone in a secluded place, yet "fortunate enough to speak with angels." Imagine being told that you will give birth to a special child, the Son of the Most High. Put yourself in Mary's place during the announciation. Consider the fear and the potential persecution she might have faced, with the possibility of having Joseph accusing her in front of the Pharisees, leading to her being stoned. Who would have believed that she is carrying the Messiah? Don't you think the tempter tried to sow doubts in her heart about her divine pregnancy? But Mary did not heed the tempter. With the divine grace bestowed upon her, she submitted and echoed Gabriel the Archangel's words: " Nothing is impossible for God" (Luke 1:37). She cared for, taught, and believed in Jesus. After enduring the seven sorrows, she was rewarded by the Holy Trinity with the Assumption, with the crowning as the Queen of heaven and earth, and with being called Our Lady. This echoes the words of St Elisabeth upon meeting her: "Yes, blessed are you who believed" (Luke 1:45). Carl Zahra SDC Candidate