The World's First Love: Mary, Mother of God

Description

cf. this sermon, which cites ch. 17 ("Mary and the Moslems") of this book on Our Lady of Fatima's connection to Islam.

See also Abp. Sheen's lecture: How to Think

Also contains his sermon "The World's Happiest Marriage"

A memorable excerpt from the latter: He argues that St. Joseph was a virile husband probably in his 30s when he married, and the archbishop coins the word "virginizer" (clearly in contradistinction to "womanizer"):

Since Mary is what might be called a "virginizer" of young men as well as women, and the greatest inspiration of Christian purity, should she not logically have begun by inspiring and virginizing the first youth whom she had probably ever met - Joseph, the Just? It was not by diminishing his power to love, but by elevating it, that she would have her first conquest, and in her own spouse, the man who was a man, and not a mere senile watchman!

With his characteristic eloquence and brilliance, Fulton Sheen presents a moving portrayal of the Blessed Virgin Mary that combines deep spirituality with history, philosophy and theology. Mary's whole life is lovingly portrayed in this word portrait that is a never failing source of information, consolation and inspiration.

While considering the different phases of Mary's life, Bishop Sheen discusses various problems common to mankind of every age and reveals clearly that every problem can be resolved. He emphasizes the unique dignity, strength and gifts of women and their ability to help heal the world's problems. Sheen stresses mankind's need of the Mother of God and her burning love for all her children. The great resurgence of devotion to Mary is God's way of emphasizing the worth and dignity of every person against the false doctrines that have so confused the modern world.