By Carrie Gress
We often think of trends happening only in fashions and fads, and yet, there are real trends in ideas, even spiritual ideas.
For centuries, the name “Mary” was always among the most popular names for baby girls. But the winds have changed, and not only has the name Mary fallen out of favor, but the Virgin Mary as a role model of Christian living has declined, as well.
I am not surprised, then, when I hear some women say, “I just don’t feel a connection with Mary.” I have heard this over and over again from women, particularly in the last year since the release of my book The Marian Option. “Yes, I understand,” is always my response. For years and years, this is exactly how I felt. In my mind, I could clearly comprehend why Mary was important, and I had a deep fascination with places like Lourdes and Fatima. But in my heart, all my emotions felt cold and unengaged. And it wasn’t because I had an unloving mother — I have a wonderful mother. There was something more to it that I could never put my finger on.