May 2, 2019
Do you know, sweet Mary,
Whereto I aspire?
It is my hope to love You,
This is my desire.
I would ever be near You,
Queen most fair and sweet!
Do not, do not drive me
From my Mother's feet.
Then, O Rose most lovely!
Let me hear from You.
Loving Mother! tell me
What thou wilt of me.
More I cannot offer,
Lo! I bring my heart;
Lovingly I give it,
Never from You to part.
Lady, please take it,
It is no longer mine:
Long since you loved it,
And its love was thine!
Do not, then, forsake me,
Mother of sweet Love,
Till one day you see me
Safe in Heaven above.
The Columbans are a society of missionaries, including priests and lay people, who minister to people of various cultures as a way of witnessing to the universal love of God.