The cult of Mary is a strange phenomenon which never ceases to amaze.

At Mass today in the bulletin there was a modern picture of Mary at the top of a short flight of steps waiting to hold a supplicant. That is what Mary is to many people. To the Atheist this is all absurd posturing, a whim of the human need for maternal reassurance. But like so many atheistical arguments, while they are instantly recognisable and indeed appeal in their rationality. They are quietly stated and as quietly come to an end. There is no more save the statement. But Mary is also continuing history and a personal presence.

If you pray to her, there does seem to be a response. So what if this is only a product of our imagination? To those who pray it, it is real. It works. It produces results.