Mary the Subversive

Sermon by Deacon Richard Cole | August 16th 2026

https://youtu.be/Cx-UjPihwiE?si=Jjjq2B8Le6ClLmHt

On the Feast of St Mary the Virgin, Deacon Richard Cole reflects on Mary not simply as a figure of obedience, but as a strong, courageous and even subversive voice of faith.

At the heart of the sermon is Mary’s Magnificat: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” In her song, Mary draws our attention away from herself and toward a God who lifts up the lowly, fills the hungry with good things, and challenges the proud and powerful.

Drawing connections between Christian traditions, Mary’s place in Islam, and Emmanuel’s recent experience hosting young people from Jerusalem Peacebuilders, Deacon Richard explores how Mary has been understood across centuries and faith traditions. Far from presenting a passive or submissive figure, the Magnificat reveals a young woman willing to speak boldly about justice, power, poverty and God’s concern for those on the margins.

The words of the Magnificat remain as radical and challenging today as they were in the first century. Mary’s life ultimately points beyond herself to Christ and offers us a model of servant ministry: what it means to follow God faithfully, courageously and unreservedly.

Readings: Isaiah 61:10–11 | Psalm 34:1–9 | Galatians 4:4–7 | Luke 1:46–55