Mama Mary and Her Children: A Legacy of Love and Faith
Featuring Rowie Juan Matti, High School 1984 and Editor of Mama Mary and Her Children.
Every 8th of September, the Assumption community turns its gaze to Mary, our Mother, as we celebrate her birthday. This year, we honor Mama Mary not only as our model of faith and love but also through the stories of her children—ordinary people whose lives were touched by her extraordinary presence.
One such child of Mary is Rowie Juan Matti, Assumption Old Girl, mother, and editor of the beloved book series Mama Mary and Her Children. The series, begun by the late Fr. James B. Reuter, S.J., has grown into eight volumes of faith-filled testimonies that continue to inspire generations of readers.
A Mother’s Presence in Everyday Life
For Rowie, Mama Mary is not just a figure of devotion—she is a constant companion.
“Each day, I begin with a prayer of thanksgiving and ask for her help in all that I will face. I pray the rosary whenever I can—on the way to work, in traffic, or when I can’t sleep at night. Her presence gives me strength to overcome challenges, and to find hope. With her by my side, I don’t just get through the day—I become better, happier, and more at peace.”
Her devotion also anchors her family life. Every evening at 6:30, Rowie and her family gather for the cenacle, praying the rosary and reflecting on The Blue Book by Fr. Stefano Gobbi. These moments, she says, are reminders that Mama Mary is always drawing her children closer to Jesus.
A Friendship that Led to a Mission
Rowie’s involvement with Mama Mary and Her Children began with a providential friendship. She first met Fr. James Reuter during her high school recollection at Assumption. Later in life, during times of challenge, she sought him out for spiritual guidance and eventually became his mentee.
When the bestselling first volume of Mama Mary and Her Children was followed by requests for more, Fr. Reuter—already advanced in years—asked Rowie to help him. Together, they completed Volumes 2 and 3. After his passing, Rowie carried on the mission, completing Volumes 4 to 8 with co-authors. She reflects, “I never thought I would be a book author or editor. But I realized this wasn’t just about Fr. Reuter. It was also about Mama Mary. And how can you say no to her?”
Her dedication has borne fruit: Mama Mary and Her Children, Volume 8 was recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Gintong Aklat Award.
Stories that Transform
What inspires Rowie most about the series is witnessing how deeply Mama Mary touches lives.
“Everyone has their own journey, but faith in God through Mama Mary makes it lighter and more meaningful. What touched me most was discovering the many ways Mama Mary works in people’s lives—guiding, comforting, inspiring.”
Among the most moving contributions for her are those from her own family. Her mother shared her testimony in Volume 3, while her daughters wrote in Volume 8 after witnessing their mother’s devotion during a life-threatening illness.
“I never forced them to pray; they learned by seeing. Their stories were their way of sharing Mama Mary’s love with others.”
Being Mama Mary’s Child
When asked what it means to be “Mama Mary’s child,” Rowie’s answer is simple yet profound: “It means living each day with trust, humility, patience, and love—just as she did. It means knowing I am never alone because she is always guiding me closer to her Son.”
She believes this is why people from all walks of life connect so strongly with Mama Mary: “Her love is unconditional and never-ending. Just like our mothers on earth, we turn to her for comfort, guidance, and support. And when we pray to her, miracles can happen.”
Assumption Roots, Marian Fruits
Rowie credits her Assumption formation for nurturing her Marian devotion. “At Assumption, we were taught the value of prayer, reflection, and building a deep relationship with God. My devotion to Mama Mary began here—and it continues to inspire me as I work on this collection, which has now grown to eight volumes.”
The journey is not yet over. Rowie and her team are now preparing Volume 9 and inviting Marian devotees to share their stories.
If you have a testimony of Mama Mary’s love and intercession, you may send it to rowiematti@gmail.com. Your story may inspire others and become part of Mama Mary and Her Children, Volume 9.
A Message of Hope
Looking ahead, Rowie’s greatest hope is that readers will find in these books the same strength she has found in Mama Mary’s embrace. “No matter what challenges we face, we are never alone. Through Mama Mary’s love and intercession, there is always hope.”
And if Mama Mary herself could speak to us today? Rowie believes her message would be clear: “With all the wars, conflicts, and struggles of our world, Mama Mary would remind us to keep our faith strong and to always follow God’s will.”