The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

8th September - "The birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary announced joy and the near approach of salvation to the lost world. Mary was brought forth in the world not like other children of Adam, infected with the loathsome contagion of sin, but pure, holy, beautiful and glorious, adorned with all the most precious graces which became her who was chosen to be the Mother of God.

She appeared indeed in the weak state of our mortality; but in the eyes of Heaven she already transcended the highest seraph in purity, brightness, and the richest ornaments of grace.

If we celebrate the birthdays of the great ones of this earth, how ought we to rejoice in that of the Blessed Virgin Mary, presenting to God the best homage of our praises and thanksgiving for the great mercies He has shown in her, and imploring her mediation with her Son on our behalf.

Christ will not reject the supplications of His mother, whom He was pleased to obey whilst on earth. Her love, care and tenderness for Him, the title and qualities which she bears, the charity and graces with which she is adorned, and the crown of glory with which she is honoured, must incline Him readily to receive her recommendations and petitions".


"I am the Immaculate Conception"
    - Our Lady to St. Bernadette