A Family Tradition: Devotion to the Blessed Mother

Today is the Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary and also the third anniversary of my uncle Bob’s death.  The other day it struck me how interesting it is that my dad’s oldest brother, Robert J. Niermeyer, passed away on the Memorial of the Queenship of Mary on August 22, 2008, and my dad James L. Niermeyer’s funeral was held on the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 15, 2009.  

Both of these men of faith had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother, so it seems quite fitting that they would depart from this life into the next on or around a day set aside to honor Our Blessed Mother. 
     
My dad’s mom, Jean Niermeyer, who we called Nana, led a life of fervent faith and was close to Our Mother Mary.  I imagine she looked to the Blessed Mother for strength and consolation a number of times as she was raising four boys who were well-known for their practical jokes and mischievous tendencies. 
     
While looking to the unwavering faith and devotion the Blessed Mother had to carrying out the Lord’s will, whatever the cost, I pray that all of us will come to a deeper awareness and greater sense of the Lord’s desire and ability to lead us in each and every area of our lives.
     
Lord, bless all who are mourning the loss of loved ones this day.  Draw us closer to You in our sighs, mourning, and weeping, so that we may someday be rejoicing with You, Jesus, Mary, and our many loved ones in Heaven.  Amen.