The World's First Love, 2nd Edtion: Mary, the Mother of God

Dedicated to the Women I LoveThe Woman whom even God dreamed ofBefore the world was made;The Woman of whom I was bornAt cost of pain and labor at a Cross;The Woman who, though no priest,Could yet on Calvary’s Hill breathe,“This is my Body; This is my Blood”—For none save her gave Him human life.The Woman who guides my pen,Which falters so with wordsIn telling of the Word.The Woman who, in a world of Reds,Shows forth the blue of hope.Accept these dried grapes of thoughtsFrom this poor author, who has no wine;And with Cana’s magic and thy Son’s PowerWork a miracle and save a soul—Forgetting not my own.(Venerable Fulton J. Sheen) With his characteristic eloquence and brilliance, Fulton J. Sheen presents a moving portrayal of the Blessed Virgin Mary that combines deep spirituality with history, philosophy and theology. All the major aspects and events of Mary's life are lovingly portrayed in this word portrait that is a never failing source of information, consolation and inspiration. Sheen also gives profound insights into all the Marian beliefs ranging from the Immaculate Conception to the Assumption to the miracle of Our Lady of Fatima. While considering the different phases of Mary's life, Bishop Sheen discusses various problems common to mankind of every age and reveals clearly that every problem can be resolved. He emphasizes the unique dignity, strength and gifts of women and their ability to help heal the world's problems. Sheen stresses mankind's need of the Mother of God and her burning love for all her children. The great resurgence of devotion to Mary is God's way of emphasizing the worth and dignity of every person against the false doctrines that have so confused the modern world.