241. Mary, the Mother who cared for Jesus, now cares with maternal affection and pain for this wounded world. Just as her pierced heart mourned the death of Jesus, so now she grieves for the sufferings of the crucified poor and for the creatures of this world laid waste by human power. Completely transfigured, she now lives with Jesus, and all creatures sing of her fairness. She is the Woman, “clothed in the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” (Rev 12:1). Carried up into heaven, she is the Mother and Queen of all creation. In her glorified body, together with the Risen Christ, part of creation has reached the fullness of its beauty. She treasures the entire life of Jesus in her heart (cf. Lk 2:19,51), and now understands the meaning of all things. Hence, we can ask her to enable us to look at this world with eyes of wisdom.
The symbolism of Jesus as the Lamb of God. He is also worshiped in some prayers as the Lamb of God. Mary is a transforming figure. She is a virgin mother of God's Son. She is worshiped by many as nearly separate in her status. She is considered a vital part of Catholic worship. Not all Christians accept her as uniquely as a figure to worship. Catholics view her as vital and one that hears prayers.
I could get into the image of star, moons and sun; but, that is noted in many religions. The symbolism is common.
242. At her side in the Holy Family of Nazareth, stands the figure of
Saint Joseph. Through his work and generous presence, he cared for and
defended Mary and Jesus, delivering them from the violence of the unjust
by bringing them to Egypt. The Gospel presents Joseph as a just man,
hard-working and strong. But he also shows great tenderness, which is
not a mark of the weak but of those who are genuinely strong, fully
aware of reality and ready to love and serve in humility. That is why he
was proclaimed custodian of the universal Church. He too can teach us
how to show care; he can inspire us to work with generosity and
tenderness in protecting this world which God has entrusted to us.
