The month of the Immaculate Conception

December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1854, this dogma was officially defined by Pope Pius IX as one of the four Marian dogmas of the Catholic Church, and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th. For some countries this is a national public holiday, while for others it is a Holy Day of Obligation.

“I am the Immaculate Conception.” This is what Our Lady told Bernadette of Lourdes, a young peasant girl who knew nothing of such things. This meant that when Mary was conceived in the womb of her mother, St. Anne, she was preserved by a singular Grace of God, and through the foreseen merits of her son Jesus Christ, from the stain of original sin. This New Eve, who said “Yes” to God, unlike the original Eve, was Holy enough to bear the Son of God in her womb, the most pure vessel.

Advent 2025

This year Advent begins on Sunday, November 30th, the Feast of St. Andrew, Jesus’ first disciple. It is a time of great anticipation, joy, and preparation, as we direct our hearts and minds to the celebration of Jesus’ arrival in Bethlehem as a helpless infant. Let us make room in our hearts for the most beautiful celebration of Christmas, remembering the Holy Family and Jesus’ humble birth.