Our Parish Patron
The Parish of Camborne and Redruth is dedicated to Mary under the title of "Our Lady of All Nations".
Jesus' last act before he died was to entrust his beloved disciple to his mother whom he called 'Woman' (Jn 19:25-27). Traditionally the Church has interpreted the name Woman as a reference to the Woman of the prophecy of Genesis 3:15 who will co-operate with the Messiah. It has also interpreted the Beloved Disciple as representing every follower of Jesus (Rev 12:17).
Just as the apostle Simon's new name Peter denotes a new role, so Mary's title at the foot of the Cross denotes a new vocation. Most people have known Mary only as a Christmas card character - her role as mother of Jesus, but in God's plan her motherhood was to include all peoples. This is what is encapsulated in calling her 'Lady Of All Nations'. In this era of increased international communication, she is uniquely placed to bring people together. A pilgrimage to Lourdes will always bear witness to this. The days of prayer in Amsterdam are yet more striking examples.
More on the meaning of this title - click here
