Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Saturday of week 16 in Ordinary Time
Ecclesiasticus 44:1,10-15
On this feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the reading from Ecclesiasticus invites us to honour those “famous men” whose virtues shaped generations, not through worldly power, but through faithfulness and quiet strength. Though their names may not be inscribed in monuments, their memory lives on because of the goodness they passed down—“their bodies are buried in peace, but their name lives for ever.” In Joachim and Anne, we see this legacy embodied: their hidden, faithful lives formed the heart of Mary, and through her, the humanity of Christ. Their holiness reminds us that the most lasting influence often comes not from public deeds, but from humble, loving fidelity in the family, in daily work, and in prayer. Today, we are called to reflect on the heritage we are receiving and the legacy we are leaving. God works through generations, and our silent acts of faith may be shaping saints yet to be born. Let’s reflect: Am I living in a way that leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and quiet holiness that can shape and bless future generations?
Don Giorgio