When the Schoenstatt movement started, Fr Kentenich and a group of young people invited Mary to be at their side. They believed and experienced that if they were to grow in faith and make that faith a cornerstone of their daily lives, then they would need Mary. Mary is the quickest and easiest way to Jesus.

Including Mary in bringing up your children is the fruit of real experience. She works! Ask her to be a special member of your home and family and she will not hesitate. Mary is a missionary. She is the first disciple of Jesus, who has the unique charism to lead people easily to him. Fr Kentenich once called Mary a “whirlpool” for Jesus. She draws the human heart, with irresistable force, to a deep and personal bond with Jesus.

Parents cannot build the “Great Wall of China” around their children. They cannot always be with them every moment of every day. There will come a time when children will seek their own way and their own independence; parents have to let go. But letting go means letting Mary do her bit. In times of worry or struggle, in times of change and choices, Mary will be at the side of our children and will look after them. In our times of helplessness, we have a heavenly Mother, who will not let us down. Make a “bargain’ with Mary and see want she does for you and your family!

Fr Kentenich’s experience was so simple: “Get to know the Blessed Mother and teach others to know her. Learn how to hold the Blessed Mother in high esteem and teach others to do the same. Learn how to love the Blessed Mother and teach others to love her too.”