Our Parish Patron – Our Lady of All Nations

Our parish is dedicated to Mary under the title: “Our Lady of All Nations”.

Jesus’ last act before he died was to entrust the beloved disciple to his mother, whom he called ‘Woman’ (Jn 19:25-27) or ‘Lady’. Traditionally the Church has interpreted this as a reference to the Woman in the prophecy of Genesis 3:15 who will co-operate with the Messiah. It has also interpreted the Beloved Disciple as representing every follower of Jesus (Rev 12:17).

Just as the apostle Simon’s new name ‘Peter’ means a new role, so does Mary’s title ‘Woman’ at the foot of the Cross. Most people know her only as a Christmas card character – as mother of Jesus. But in God’s plan, her motherhood includes all peoples. This is what is encapsulated in calling her ‘Lady Of All Nations’.

In this era of increased international communication, Mary is uniquely placed to bring people together. A pilgrimage to a Marian shrine will always bear witness to this. The days of prayer in Amsterdam are particularly striking examples.