“Mary and Elizabeth lived with ongoing uncertainty and shame by faith. They can inform and encourage us. We hear in Paul’s Letter to the Colossians: “As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, patience … forgiveness … and love … .” Elizabeth and Mary’s tender greetings, calling forth, and months shared together must have invited compassion, kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love. They are a model for us.”

On the Feast of the Visitation, Br. Luke Ditewig steps into the wondrous moment between Mary and Elizabeth and finds in its visit and its welcome a model for us all.