Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, is celebrated every year on January 1 – New Year’s Day, to honor Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus Christ. The day is set aside to reflect on the role of Mary as a model of faith and obedience to God’s will. It also emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ birth and his nature as both divine and human.

In his Apostolic Letter, Marialis Cultus, Pope Paul VI explained: “This celebration, placed on January 1 …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 renewing adoration of the newborn Prince of Peace, for listening once more to the glad tidings of the angels (cf. Lk. 2:14), and for imploring from God, through the Queen of Peace, the supreme gift of peace.”

So, as we enter the new year, let us ask Mary, Mother of God, to bless us through the gift of Jesus so that He can guide us through the difficult paths of the future and let us prayerfully celebrate this day through prayer and reflection.

Let us pray,

Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.