Queen of the Universe Shrine, Orlando FL

[MariaChristi]

My husband and I visited this minor Basilica, Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Oralndo some years ago, see HERE

After the awful terrorist attack in Orlando, hopefully, visitors to this shrine will increase! Surely Divine Providence moved the hearts of those who inititiated the construction of this shrine for the many, many visitors and tourists from other countries who traveled to Disney world and other Orlando attractions that they would have a place to worship God, at Mass, on Sundays. Would that every Catholic was faithful to Sunday Mass and devotion to Mary.

Today’s readings echo in my heart as I type this. In the First Reading, the prophet cries out against the Kings of Israel and the People for their unfaithfulness, and Jesus in the Gospel repeats God’s Commands that His People may repent:

…Although prophets were sent to them to convert them to the LORD,
the people would not listen to their warnings.
Then the Spirit of God possessed Zechariah,
son of Jehoiada the priest.
He took his stand above the people and said to them:
“God says, ‘Why are you transgressing the LORD’s commands,
so that you cannot prosper?
Because you have abandoned the LORD, he has abandoned you.’”
But they conspired against him,
and at the king’s order they stoned him to death…

Jesus warned the people and evil men conspired against Him as well, but His Truth stands firm:
Jesus said to his disciples:
“No one can serve two masters.
He will either hate one and love the other,
or be devoted to one and despise the other.
You cannot serve God and mammon (money)…

…So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’
or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’
All these things the pagans seek.
Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given you besides.
Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.
Sufficient for a day is its own evil.”

On this Saturday, Mary’s Day, let us pray her Rosary with ever greater attention and devotion. Let us examine our own hearts; Whom do we serve? Who is the One we choose over all and what is it we seek first? Let us pray for Orlando, for our country, and for all those in most need of God’s Mercy.

Mary, Mother of Mercy, Queen of the Universe, pray for us.
Jesus, we trust in You!