The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Solemnity 



Genesis 3:9-15,​20

Psalm 97(98):1-4

Ephesians 1:3-6,​11-12

Luke 1:26-38



Today’s solemnity of the immaculate conception of the blessed Virgin Mary honors the tradition that Mary was conceived without sin, proclaimed dogma by Pope Pius IX in 1854. She was full of grace from her conception, prefiguring Jesus Christ’s Incarnation, which inspires our thanksgiving, devotion and praise.



The feast celebrates the joyful beginning of her divine favor—a mystery and grace that marks her predestination and the start of God’s work through Jesus, born of Mary. God prepared her as his temple, purifying her from sin. 


Her purity, essential for holiness, was preserved by divine grace, making her free from original and actual sin. Her Immaculate Conception is a glorious mystery, benefitting all by our redemption and divine life.


Mary, from the tribe of Judah, exemplifies the perfect, undefiled sanctuary of God, symbolizing hope and divine purity. As we celebrate, we pray for divine purification of our hearts and souls.




O Mary! conceived without sin, pray for us all who recourse to thee. 

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