Return to The Reign of Mary No. 137
The Reign of Mary
Vol. XLI, No. 137: Letter from the Editor
March 17, 2010
Feast of St. Patrick
Praised be Jesus and Mary. Over the past several issues of The Reign of Mary we have published a series of articles on the various addictions which destroy marriages and bring misery (often eternal misery) to countless souls. As faithful Catholics, we are not immune to the wiles of the devil and the weakness of fallen human nature. That is why it is important for us to be aware of the means that God has provided to aid us in overcoming temptation and conquering our passions.
In this issue we publish several articles on overcoming addiction. It is our hope that these articles will serve as a source of courage and determination to those who have fallen into vice. One must never give up, thinking that it is impossible to overcome sin. There have been so many examples of sinners turned saints — St. Mary Magdalene, St. Augustine, St. Mary of Egypt, St. Margaret of Cortona, to name a few — that we must never doubt the efficacy of God’s grace in the souls of those who cooperate with it. The devils would like to convince the sinner that it is impossible to repent, but with the grace of God, all things are possible.
Now that we are in the season of Lent, we should consider the importance of progress in the spiritual life. Lent is not only a time of penance and reparation for sin, but of amendment of life. Now is the “acceptable time”; now is the propitious moment. If you find that there is need of amendment in your life, do not delay. Begin this moment to conquer sin and self. Throw yourself into the loving arms of Mary and ask her help, for she will not abandon you.
It was at Fatima that Our Lady uttered the words, “I have come to ask men to amend their lives; they must cease offending my divine Son.” Let us take these words to heart and strive to eliminate all sin from our lives. God is so much offended today. Let us at least console the Sacred Heart by our love, contrition and reparation. May this Lent be for each of us a time of spiritual progress and of permanent amendment of life!
In the service of Jesus and Mary
Fr. Benedict Hughes, CMRI
(Email Father)