December 8, 2024

The Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first moment of her conception, by a singular privilege of Almighty God, and in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, our Savior and hers, was preserved from all stain of original sin. This age-old belief of the Church was defined by Blessed Pius IX in 1854 as an article of revealed truth.

Mary was in need of redemption, and she was indeed redeemed by the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ. The manner of Mary's redemption, however, was unique. Instead of being freed from original sin after having contracted it, she was preserved from contracting it. This was a most fitting favor for the mother of the redeemer, and as we celebrate the 170th anniversary of the definition of this dogma on Sunday, December 8th we ask her maternal intercession for our country of which she is the patroness under this title. 

Please remember that the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a Holy Day of Obligation and that we must celebrate Mass on this day, even though it is observed this year on December 9. Masses are as follows: December 9th, 6:30 a.m.; 9:00 a.m.; noon; and 7:00 p.m. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!