The many names of Mary

Shakespeare said, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Perhaps that’s true, but when it comes to Jesus’ mother, Catholics have many ways of addressing her. Names connect us to one another and to God. In the Book of Exodus, when Abraham first encounters God, he asks the Lord his name. The Lord responds, “I am who I am” (Ex 3:14). The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that God revealed himself to us by making his name known (see No. 203). Likewise, the many names of Mary reveal her many aptitudes such as saint, helpmate and mother of us all.

Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette Soubirous • Saint stories

Our Lady has appeared to many people throughout history, including a fourteen-year-old girl in Lourdes, France–Bernadette Soubirous. Bernadette lived in a very poor house in Lourdes, France, with her parents, two brothers, and a sister. You’ll find Bernadette’s story, and a movie suggestion based on her life.