Throughout the New Testament one finds references to Mary. In fact, at every significant juncture in our Lord's life, one finds Mary on the horizon.

When God began His plan for our redemption, He sent to Nazareth an angel, who hailed a woman as"highly favoured" or "full of grace" to be the human partner in this divine enterprise (cf Lk 1:28).

When the Babe was born in Bethlehem, He came forth into our world not from heaven but from the womb of the Virgin Mary (cf Mt 1:25; Lk 2:7).

As the Child was presented to the Lord in the Temple of Jerusalem on the fortieth day, the old prophet Simeon singled out His Mother Mary for  special mention as a woman destined to be the Mother of Sorrows (cf Lk 2:35).

Twelve years later, after another temple visit, the Boy Jesus returned with His Mother and foster father to Nazareth and was subject to them (cf Lk 2:51).

It was Mary who prodded her Son into action at Cana to work His first miracle, launching Him on His public ministry (cf Jn 2:3).

Mary stood by His side at the foot of the Cross and was given to John as the Mother of the Church (cf Jn 19:26f).

Finally, as the Church was waiting to be born in the Upper Room, while the disciples prayed for the Pentecost gift of the Spirit, Luke tells us that Mary was in their midst (cf Acts 1:14).