December 8

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Solemnity

Celebrates the belief that Mary was free from sin from her conception

This feast is about Mary’s own beginning, not the birth of Jesus, though people often mix the two up. Catholics believe that from the first moment of her life in her mother’s womb, God kept Mary free from original sin, preparing her to become the mother of Jesus. The Bible doesn’t describe her conception; the belief grew from reflection on passages such as the angel’s greeting in Luke 1, traditionally rendered “full of grace”.

By around the eighth century, Eastern Christians kept a feast of Anne’s conception of Mary, and Orthodox churches still mark it on 9 December. In the West the feast spread from the eleventh century, while theologians argued over it for centuries. The Franciscan John Duns Scotus answered a key objection: Mary too was saved by Christ, only in advance.

Pope Pius IX defined the doctrine on 8 December 1854. Orthodox and Protestant Christians do not accept that definition, though many Christians also honour Mary as the one who said yes to God.

The angel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. So the angel told her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

Luke 1:28–30 · BSB

A prayer

God of grace, you prepared Mary from the very beginning to be the mother of your Son, and she welcomed your word with trust. Free us from sin, make room in our lives for Christ, and help us answer your call with open and willing hearts. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.