Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary

"Because He was God, he could give his mother gifts not only before he was born of her, but before she was born herself. This is the meaning of the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception."

~~ F. J. Sheed

In creating a pure and perfect Mother, Lord, and in saving her before she was born, You gave us hope for what we can become.

"In her, the destinies of the world were to be reversed, and the serpent’s head bruised. In her was bestowed the greatest honor ever put upon any individual of our fallen race. God was taking upon Him her flesh, and humbling Himself to be called her offspring – such is the deep mystery!"

~~St. John Henry Cardinal Newman

In the midst of mystery, Lord, you give me something real and solid -- a mother to cling to.

(from Through the Year With Mary: 365 Reflections)