Our Lady in Amiens, France

Yesterday we arrived in France for a short vacation with my husband's family. Next week we are anticipating his cousin's wedding with lots of excitement. I was asked to play the guitar as backup music for the wedding. Since I'm not familiar with the French Mass songs I had to take some time to listen beaucoup (a lot) and practice. But I have fallen in love with the music and it is a blessing to be able to understand and appreciate the songs as well.

One of my favorite ones is called "Alléluia-hé" (by Glorious). It is very contemporary, with a fast beat and guitars. There are really good YouTube videos of it, but my favorite one is sung by an African choir. I don't know when it's supposed to be sung during the wedding, but I can't wait to hear it. Songs like these really get you pumped up to worship. I encourage you to listen and praise. There are only 3 lines in French so anyone can learn it.

Another song I like is "Je vous salut Marie". It is more classical, gentle and calm. Essentially it is the Hail Mary in sung version. On Spotify the Angelus is combined with the song.

Today I attended Mass at the Amiens cathédrale and we sung the "Je Vous Salut Marie" at the end and it was glorious.

Amiens' Cathedral is know for it's many angel depictions and statues, and of course as a "Notre Dame" meaning Our Lady, for Marian depictions. The crying baby angel is here, as part of a tomb decoration, at the back of the church. It faces the Virgin Mary's 'chapel' ...it's not a chapel, but I forgot the architecture term. Well, there is a small golden statue of her holding baby Jesus. The famous statue of the smiling Mary with the infant Jesus is in the East entrance.

My point being is that it was a touching Mass to be able to end with this song and walk around the church and be reminded of our mother Mary. Her comforting smile as she holds our savior is an encouragement as a mother to know that it is with her that we walk towards Jesus. It is with her warmth and love that we are encouraged to stand up from our weary self and again turn to Jesus. It is with Mary that I am reminded that it is possible to be a true Christian today, and through her son Jesus I can have more patience with my little two year old toddler who is beginning to learn the meaning of boundaries. Oh Virgin mother, please continue to guide me towards your son Jesus, and strengthen me in prayer to be united with Christ.