Prayers for Boston

On behalf of all of the Builders, I want to say that our fervent prayers and thoughts are with the victims and their families in Boston, MA, in the wake of the horrific marathon bombings yesterday. It is amazing how one person (or perhaps a couple of people) can cause such terror and destruction, all in the blink of an eye, and how life is changed forever for so many. Countless stories of heroism are already being told and in the weeks ahead, as people try to piece their lives back together, there will be plenty more opportunities for courage and bravery. Bostonians are a hearty bunch, and I have no doubt that they will carry each other through this difficult time and persevere in their struggle to recover.

As I watched the news coverage last night, I couldn’t help but think of all of the times that I walked up and down that stretch of Boylston Street while living in Boston. I was born in Concord, spent part of my childhood in Needham and Wellesley, and spent the first few years of marriage and motherhood in Newton. My husband’s office was literally right next to the bombing site, so close that we could see it on the news, and every year he and his colleagues would watch the finish of the Boston Marathon from one of their conference rooms. Just a couple of years ago, we had the wonderful opportunity to bring our children back to Boston for a short visit, and we realized that part of our hearts will always remain in the city that gave us so many wonderful memories. Our hearts are heavy as we hear of the casualties and think of their grieving families, and one of our children had a terrible nightmare last night after hearing the sad news.

We join our prayers with those of the faithful in Boston, and ask God to strengthen those who will be called to serve in the days and weeks ahead. Mary, Comforter of the Afflicted, pray for us!

Memorarae

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of Virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but, in thy mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.