Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has issued a reflection on the role of Mary as the Mother of Mercy. In his message to the faithful, Cardinal Tobin emphasizes that Mary guides believers to love and forgiveness through her son, Jesus. He states, "Mary is the Mother of Mercy because she leads us to Jesus." The cardinal points to images such as Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Our Lady of Guadalupe as representations that highlight Mary's role in directing attention to Christ rather than to herself.

Cardinal Tobin addresses criticisms that devotion to Mary perpetuates a submissive role for women. He counters this by citing the Magnificat and the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, emphasizing Mary's strength and the significant works attributed to her through God's providence. He recalls the narrative in which the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego in indigenous clothing and language, and how the miraculous image on Juan Diego's tilma led to the conversion of Bishop Juan de Zumárraga and the construction of a chapel at Tepeyac Hill. The image remains on display at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe near Mexico City, which receives millions of pilgrims annually.

The cardinal also notes that Mary is recognized as the patroness of the Americas and that many people seek her intercession for protection against illness, poverty, violence, and social unrest. He quotes Mary's words to Juan Diego: "Do not be afraid. Am I not your mother?" He encourages all believers to turn to Mary in times of difficulty or fear.

Cardinal Tobin writes, "Mary changes hearts. She leads us to her Son and helps us recognize him as our Redeemer." He calls for prayers to Mary for protection through Jesus's redemptive work.

The message highlights October as the traditional month dedicated to the Holy Rosary. The cardinal reflects on the comfort found in praying the rosary and recalls how this devotion has been central in the lives of saints and generations of Catholic families. He references an account from Pope Francis's biography in which then-Cardinal Bergoglio was moved by observing Pope John Paul II praying the rosary, leading him to adopt the daily practice himself. The story underscores Mary's ongoing presence in the lives of Church leaders and believers.

A homily from Pope Leo XIV is also included in the message, focusing on unity in Christ and Mary's role as an example of faith and courage. The Pope reflects on Mary's experience during the Assumption and her enduring significance for the Church. He writes about how the Magnificat continues to inspire hope among the humble and those committed to peace and justice, especially in communities facing hardship or persecution.

The message concludes with an invitation from Cardinal Tobin for the faithful to join him in praying the Magnificat, the canticle attributed to Mary in the Gospel of Luke.