In the Footsteps of Leaders
What was apparent to me on the immersion was how Mary is intrinsic to the faith of the region. Several towns have Our Lady watching over them – such as Our Lady of Olatz – the Mother of communities. Saint Ignatius’ own pilgrimage journey included vigils held at altars of Our Lady – before Our Lady of Montserrat, he laid down his arms and committed to live on alms. Especially captivating to me was Our Lady of Arantzazu, who looked so kind and modest, as someone I would feel comfortable confiding in (note the intercessions sought of Our Lady in the triple colloquies of the Spiritual Exercises.). The altar with the image of Madonna della Strada in the Chiesa del Gesù has Our Lady draped in brown hessian cloth. I envisage her searching out and ministering to people on the streets, which was what the First Companions did.