This article was originally published on March 5, 2020.

“Mary is the safest, easiest, shortest and surest way of approaching Jesus” (St. Louis de Montfort).

Bold Women: Presence and Passion at the Foot of the Cross

Catholic Women in Business’ Lenten Theme

On reflecting on and discussing Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection, the Catholic Women in Business leadership team saw a common theme: women. In the New Testament, we read of bold women who encountered Jesus and were forever changed. These women boldly spoke to him, boldly loved him, and boldly took his message into their communities. This Lent, our writers will be exploring this theme in their articles. Share how you are carrying your cross boldly and passionately in our Facebook group!

This year for Lent, Catholic Women in Business is focusing on the strong women of the New Testament and their example to us of leadership, strength, and boldness. In my own reflection, I couldn’t help but think about the ultimate woman: Mary.

In St. Louis de Montfort’s book “True Devotion to Mary,” he speaks of 10 virtues that Mary exemplified. These virtues have been a guidepost for much of my adult life, and they take shape in different ways as I enter into new phases of life or new circumstances. As a wife, a mother and a woman working in my industry, I have begun to cling to Mary’s virtues as an example and as a goal.

Here are some ways each of us can practice these 10 Marian virtues in our own work lives. 

1. Angelic Sweetness

I don’t think “angelic” or “sweetness” are qualities our society embraces much these days. They often bring to mind passivity or timidity.

But we know that Mary was the opposite of timid. Her love of the Lord seeped from her, and she spread her sweetness to everyone around her. We can use her as an example in a culture and a world where it’s so easy to focus on the difficult road ahead or the painstaking work needed to get the job done.

Put it into practice:

• Next time a co-worker hits a roadblock or a difficulty on the job, be the first to step in and encourage him or her.

• When you have a bad day (and we all have them), thank God for the joy you do receive from your work.

• Put an encouraging post-it note on the desk of a co-worker who is struggling.

2. Ardent Charity

This virtue isn't always easy in work environments, especially if you work with people who are difficult. Being charitable, however, can show that you are a team player who is willing to help others for the mission of your work.

Mary showed charity in all she did. She visited her pregnant cousin when she needed help, she was a comfort to the disciples, and she took John the Apostle in as her son after the Ascension of Jesus. Mary is a bold example of charity and one we can take with us into our work.

Put it into practice:

• Bring a coffee to a co-worker who has been struggling.

• Lend a hand to someone who has a deadline to meet.

• Instead of working from your couch or co-working space, look for local coffee shops or restaurants that donate proceeds to people in need. Do your remote work from there today!

3. Blind Obedience

This one can be hard to relate into the modern day. We’re typically taught to not blindly obey and, instead, to challenge the status quo and ask questions. We’re taught to reason and provide healthy pushback. Often, doing so is good.

However, Mary’s blind obedience was due to the trust she had in God as she lived out His will. With her fiat, she handed her life completely over to God. When I look at blind obedience through these lenses, trust is something tangible I can play out in my everyday life.

Put it into practice:

• Practice praying the same words Mary gave us: “Be it done unto me according to Your will.”

• Recognize God’s hand in the big opportunities or responsibilities handed to you. Accept them as a challenge, and trust that God is with you even in the unknown.

4. Constant Mental Prayer

When Mary was told she would be the mother of God, creation held its breath waiting for her reply. Then, she burst into song, praising God. She was told what could potentially be earth-shattering news, but instead of crying out in anguish, she reached to the Lord in prayer. If that’s not a witness for constant mental prayer, then I don’t know what is.

Lent can be a great time to practice this type of prayer routine, especially in the work environment. It can be a challenge to turn our work difficulties, our distractions, and even our downtime over to God. But doing so will lead us to virtue, as Mary shows us.

Put it into practice:

• Bring a prayer book or the Bible with you on your lunch break, and read a page or two before heading back to your desk.

• Set an alarm for 3:00 p.m., the hour of mercy, when we remember Jesus’ death on the cross. Say a quick prayer before diving back into your work. For example: “For the sake of Your Sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world!”

• Put a post-it note on your desk with a quote or prayer on it, and let it be a reminder to praise God throughout your day.

5. Divine Purity

This virtue is often misconstrued. I used to think it was speaking of Mary’s virginity and nothing else, but it can also mean her purity of heart and intention, or her authenticity.

Mary approached every situation with grace (she was, after all, “full of” it) and authenticity. Practicing authenticity at work may not always be easy, but we see firsthand from Mary the fruit that comes from purity of actions. 

Put it into practice:

• Practice authentic leadership. Even if you’re not in a leadership role at work, approaching situations with honesty and a genuine desire for the good of the team can lead to a huge boost in morale.

• Try practicing relational transparency, or genuine, straightforward, and honest feedback with your team. This type of feedback will help to build trust with your co-workers.

Don’t miss part 2 of this article next week!

Annie Schunior is a copy writer and communications specialist working for the Catholic Church in the city of Detroit. In addition, she does consulting for non-profits and online ministries as well as some freelance writing. Most days, Annie can be found with coffee in hand, toting around her 2 year old son or exploring the beautiful city of Detroit with her family. You can follow her on Instagram at @annie_schuns.