Ave Maria

by Rhynnah S Bayne

used with permission

I wrote the following poem while in RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults). Coming from a background of nondenominational Christianity, the Church's teachings on Mary were very difficult for me to grasp. I read and reread the Bible. Fretted and fussed at God. Argued with the Capuchin brother who taught our class. It didn't work.

Eventually though, I came around to the Church's viewpoint. This was partially because I wrote and reflected on Mary's role in the life of her Son. Most of it was pure grace.

This poem is an example of what I wrote during and after these reflections.

Ave Maria

"Hail, Mary, full of grace,"

When I speak, the Virgin's face
Kindles in me an awesome thirst
For the faith in God which Mary nursed.

"Blessed are thou amongst women"

She is purified and without sin
To house the Word made human flesh,
The monstrance where Deity and mortal mesh.

"Blessed is the fruit of thy womb"

Blest from dawn of life to dark of tomb,
Son of God and your Son, the same...
We bless, in union with you, His name

"Jesus."

"Holy Mary, Mother of God,"

This title, of them all, most harshly trod
Upon the head of the Serpent who ever sought
To destroy thy Son but came to nought.

"Pray for us sinners, now,"

Queen of Heaven, we before thee bow
And ask that you might intercede
With your Son for every human need.

"And at the hour of our Death."

When comes the moment of our last breath,
Your prayers with ours approach the Throne
As we, in company of angels, come home.

"Amen."

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