Blogs
Mary in the News: Feb. 25, 2020
By Michael Duricy
Read recent items about Mary in both Catholic and secular news. Also, see International Marian Research Institute as well as Marian Library news and updates.
Marian Library and International Marian Research Institute Features
Updates
Five Earn IMRI Degrees
The International Marian Research Institute (IMRI) at the University of Dayton, in collaboration with the Marianum in Rome, awarded two doctoral degrees and three licentiate degrees in December, 2019, bringing IMRI's total graduates to 36 for the Licentiate in Sacred Theology and 39 for the Doctorate of Sacred Theology. These pontifically recognized degrees license the graduates to teach theology in Catholic seminaries and to work in Catholic institutions....
Mary in Media: Books, Films, Music, etc.
The Marian Library recently added The Oxford Handbook of Mary (2019) [published by Oxford University Press] to its collection. Featuring contributions from a distinguished group of international scholars, the Handbook looks at both Eastern and Western perspectives and attempts to correct imbalance in previous books on Mary towards the West. The Volume also considers Mary in Islam and pilgrimages shared by Christian, Muslim, and Jewish adherents.
The chapter on "The Virgin Mary in the Hymns of the Catholic Church" was written by IMRI Professor, Father Thomas Thompson, S.M. Some of his IMRI Colleagues were also cited in the Handbook: Dr. Gloria Dodd in the Chapter on "Mary in the Work of Redemption"; Michael Duricy in the chapter on "Symbol, Vision, Mother: Mary in Film"; and Father Johann Roten, S.M. in the chapter on 'Mary in Modernity."
Members of the Mariological Society of America (MSA) also contributed chapters: "Mariology at and after the Second Vatican Council" by Father Arthur Calkins; "Mary in the Work of Redemption" and "Mariology in the Counter Reformation" by Dr. Robert Fastiggi; and "Symbol, Vision, Mother: Mary in Film" by Dr. Catherine O' Brien.
Marian Events
Title: The Theotokos and her Role in Salvation
Topic: Scranton area Lenten Mission
Dates: March 16-20, 2020
Time: Reconciliation available starting at 6 p.m., Liturgy starting at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Multiple churches in the Scranton area--see link to More Information below for details
This Lenten Mission runs March 16 – 20, each night at a different church in the Scranton, Pa., area. The Mission theme is: "Theotokos and Her Role in Salvation." Each night liturgy starts at 6:30. Opportunity for Reconciliation/Confession starts at 6. After services, there will be time for light refreshment, fellowship, and discussion. Within the general mission theme, each night will focus on a specific aspect....
Mary in the Catholic Press
Movement for a rededication to Mary in England throughout 2020 (Behold 2020), February 17, 2020
In 1381, England was dedicated to Mary by King Richard II and was 'set apart for her among the nations'. This year, the Christians of England are called to make a personal dedication to Mary, taking up her example as Christ's first disciple.
History shows us that when the people pray and surrender to God's will for their lives, society is transformed. By taking up this personal dedication in 2020, you can be a part of the renewal of Our Lady's Dowry, drawing closer to the will of our loving God, through Mary.
This Rededication on March 29, 2020 will be both a personal promise of the people, and a renewal of the entrustment vows made by King Richard II in 1381....
Mary in the Secular Press
Surfing Madonna Mural, Non-Profit it Inspired Could Leave Encinitas (NBC San Diego website) February 9, 2020
A popular art display in Encinitas may be relocated if the City Council doesn't approve a nonprofit's special events permit.
The mosaic was created almost ten years ago and was the inspiration behind the nonprofit, Surfing Madonna Oceans Project, which was founded six years ago. The organization plans several annual community events including a special needs surf clinic, educational workshops, and runs.
According to a Feb. 12 City Council agenda, city leaders are expected to act on a recommendation to deny "the Surfing Madonna Oceans Project, November 1, 2020 Save the Ocean beach run, and future Surfing Madonna Oceans Project special events.” ...