From today’s Scripture: “Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one.”—1 Cor 15:49

Glenmary’s patroness is Our Lady of the Fields, whose devotion originated by Saint Dennis in what were the rural parts of France. Legend has it he established a chapel in honor of Mary after taking over a pagan chapel. Devotion to Our Lady of the Fields was brought to North America by the Jesuit Martyrs in the 17th century.

There are no official records about why Father William Howard Bishop, Glenmary’s founder, chose Our Lady of the Fields as Glenmary’s patroness (he was near death when he did so). It is believed, based on my research and some others, that Father Bishop may have chosen this title and patroness of Mary because of the supposed apparition to Ottawanta. It makes good sense because this legend was spreading in the area where he was a priest. It was likely that he would have known about it.

Most likely, Father Bishop was looking for a patron who would resonate with the farmers in rural America. He wanted an image of Mary that could speak to the field workers, the poor. As we look forward to her feast day on February 26, we invite you to join us in praying for Our Lady of the Fields’ intercession for Glenmary and the people we serve.

Let us pray: Loving God, open my heart to the wisdom of the Blessed Mother, especially in the devotion to Our Lady of the Fields. Help me to pray as she prayed, and lead others to grow closer to her son.

Today’s author is Glenmary Brother Thomas Nguyen, currently assigned in Martin County, North Carolina, for his mission immersion as a part of his advanced missionary formation.

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