Returned to the Mountain

On Easter Monday the Statue of Our Lady of Lourdes was returned to the Grotto on The Mountain of Praise after a short absence. During this absence the statue had been lovingly restored by Ella. We are so grateful to Ella for her artistic ability in re-painting our 19 year old statue and bringing back the original beauty. The Statue was purchased in 2001 to stand in the Grotto under a specially made wrought iron arbour that was painted white with pink roses. The rock on which the statue stands was also purpose made to secure the statue. Sparkling water flows into a round concrete pool with a slate overlay that was patiently hand laid. Our Lady faces east to the rising sun and we have always thanked her for her intercession for the Mountain of Praise and for all who have ever gathered to pray at the Grotto. The Statue was blessed on October 2001, after Mass, by Fr. Delahunty during a beautiful candle lit procession. Countless people for 19years have prayed at the Grotto and it was the place where we stood to welcome in many a new year with the joyful singing of Ave Maria. We had missed Mary in her absence and rejoiced to welcome the statue back looking even more beautiful. The gentle face of Mary reminds us of a mother’s love for all her children around the world.

No matter where her children are Our Blessed Mother prays for all and is continually directing us to her Son, the source of all life, hope, joy and truth. She says to us today, “Do whatever He tells you”, and armed with this knowledge we pick up our cross and follow Him wherever He leads, knowing God’s Grace is sufficient. Even in these strange, sad and unusual times in which we are living, Mary is praying for all her children.

“We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him.”

Romans 8:28