J.M.J.
A
few months ago, someone who has long labored in promoting respect for human
life and for marriage asked me why there was no reference to the Blessed Virgin
Mary, as is customary at the conclusion of an encyclical, at the end of Humanae Vitae, the most famous—and
last—encyclical of Blessed Paul VI.
I
did not know to respond. But looking at the encyclicals of Pope Paul VI, I note
that two of them, Humanae Vitae
(1968) and Populorum Progressio
(1967), are addressed not only to the Catholic Clergy and Faithful but also “To
All Men of Good Will.” These two do not directly mention Our Lady, while those
addressed only to Catholics do.
Whatever
the meaning, there is no argument that a “Marian spirit” permeates Humanae Vitae, which is dated July 25,
1968. Here are only three instances for our reflection during this fiftieth
anniversary.
1. The centrality
of the transmission of life within marriage. All the baptized are called to
imitate the generosity of Jesus Christ in responding to the Father. Husbands
and wives are to surrender themselves to God and His wise plan for them,
including the bringing forth of children. Although Mary and Joseph did not have
children together, both were receptive to all that the Creator wanted. The
marriage of Joseph and Mary honored and adhered to the indispensability of
being open to life.
2. The fruit of
married love. Children
are the greatest fruit of marriage. The marriage of Joseph and Mary was fecund.
Nothing was done to prohibit the gift of life; all was done to accept the Son
of God Who became man in Our Lady’s womb for us. Husbands and wives who welcome
life do as the Mother and the Foster-father of Jesus did.
3. The Law of God
is our guide. What
does the Divine Law demand from us? A “resolute purpose and great endurance.” (HV, 20) Whatever the challenge that
confronts us, the Word of God shapes us and reassures us. Christ gives His
abundant grace to us. And by accepting that grace, we become all that He wants
us to be.
