As we enter November, a month of remembrance and prayer, we reflect on the life and spirituality of Venerable Mary Potter, whose anniversary of death on November 22nd holds special significance for the Little Company of Mary sisters and the Greater Company of Mary. Values of hospitality, contemplation, generosity, and care for the sick and dying echo deeply in her writings, offering us a pathway to live out our Christian vocation with greater fidelity.

Contemplation was at the heart of Venerable Mary Potter’s spirituality. She understood prayer as the foundation of all action. She wrote, “In silence and prayer, we hear God’s voice and are strengthened to go forward with greater love and courage.” (Letters of Venerable Mary Potter). For Mary Potter, contemplation was a way of deepening her connection with God to better serve others. As we reflect on this value, we are invited to cultivate inner stillness, trusting that through contemplation, we become vessels of God’s love in the world.

Hospitality for Venerable Mary Potter was a reflection of Christ’s love for all. She encouraged her sisters to welcome others with kindness and warmth, especially those who were suffering. “To open our doors to those in need is to open our hearts to Christ Himself,” she wrote (The Life of Love). This spirit of hospitality was deeply connected to her work with the sick and dying, where she fostered environments of care and compassion. We are reminded that simple acts of kindness and hospitality can be powerful reflections of God’s love to those who are most vulnerable.

Generosity is another key aspect of Venerable Mary Potter’s legacy. She believed that true generosity flows from a heart that is united with God. “The more we give of ourselves in love and service, the more we receive God’s grace in return,” she wrote (The Spiritual Journey). Generosity for her was not simply about material giving, but about offering one’s time, attention, and presence to those in need, particularly the sick and dying. Her example challenges us to live with open hearts, giving without counting the cost.

Finally, care for the dying was central to Venerable Mary Potter’s mission, and so also to us as associates, affiliates and members of the Greater Company of Mary. She saw the final moments of life as sacred, a time to help souls transition peacefully into the arms of God. “We must pray for the dying as if we were standing at the foot of the cross, offering Christ’s love to those who are departing this life,” she wrote (The Path of Mary). Mary Potter’s deep commitment to prayer for the dying was an extension of her belief in the dignity of every person, especially in their final hours. As we follow her example, we are invited to not only care for those at the end of life but also to accompany them in prayer and presence.

By embracing these values in our own lives, we continue Mary Potter’s mission of love and service, trusting in God’s grace to guide us.

What would be some practical questions to help us reflect on and live out these values in our lives?

Hospitality – Do I create an atmosphere of openness and kindness, particularly for those who are suffering or marginalized? How can I be more welcoming to those around me—at home, work, or in my community?

Contemplation – Do I take time to listen for God’s voice before making decisions, or am I driven by busyness and distractions? How can I create more space for silence and prayer in my daily routine?

Generosity – How am I called to give of myself, not only in material ways but through my time, attention, and care for others? How can I extend my generosity to those who cannot repay me, reflecting God’s unconditional love?

Care for the Dying – How can I cultivate a greater sensitivity to the needs of those who are grieving or preparing for death, showing them the compassion and love of Christ? Do I actively pray for the dying, trusting in the power of intercession to bring comfort and peace to their souls?