"In her new motherhood in the Spirit, Mary embraces each and every one in the Church, and embraces each and every one through the Church." St. Pope John Paul II

It is appropriate that the day after the Solemnity of Pentecost, the birthday of the Church, that Mary should be recognized as Mother of the Church. Her role as Mother stems from the last words Jesus said to her from the cross. "Woman, behold your son...Son, behold your Mother." As Mary awaited the birth of her Son, so she awaited with the Disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit in power. Her Son came to saved the world; the Spirit came to sanctify. anoint, empower and mission those saved as they form other disciples. In all this, Mary fulfills her role as Mother of Jesus and Mother of the Church.