Solemnity of Mary

In the encyclical Marialis Cultus (1974) Pope Paul VI states: “This celebration, assigned to January 1 in conformity with the ancient liturgy of the city of Rome, is meant to commemorate the part played by Mary in this mystery of salvation. It is meant also to exalt the singular dignity which this mystery brings to the ‘holy Mother . . . through whom we were found worthy . . . to receive the Author of life.’ It is likewise a fitting occasion for renewed adoration of the newborn Prince of Peace, for listening once more to the glad tidings of the angels, and for imploring from God, through the Queen of Peace, the supreme gift of peace. For this reason . . . we have instituted the World Day of Peace, an observance that is gaining increasing support and is already bringing forth fruits of peace in the hearts of many” (no. 5).

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Father V. had a wonderful point to make in his homily last year. I shall attempt to paraphrase.

He said, that for practicing Catholics, resolutions at New Years is somewhat redundant. Catholics are always resolving to sin no more, each confession is an acknowledgement of where we have fallen short and we even have an entire season of Lent to come to terms with trying to be better Christians and human beings. And in our quest “to be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect” we look to one that God already perfected – Mary. Mary the meek, humble, obedient who always points us towards her son. And that really is a good reason to honor her solemnity and her maternity on this eighth day of Christmas.

We will also say the rosary together this evening.

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