The Feast of Mary Mother of God
Celebrating the Divine Maternity
January 1st marks a significant day in the Catholic calendar, as believers around the world celebrate the Feast of Mary, Mother of God. This solemnity honors the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of Jesus Christ and underscores her unique position as the Mother of God.
The Feast of Mary, Mother of God, holds a special place within the liturgical year, not only because it falls on the first day of the new year but also because it serves as a profound reminder of Mary’s pivotal role in salvation history. This celebration emphasizes the mystery of the Incarnation, affirming the divine nature of Jesus Christ, who is both fully human and fully divine.
Ave Theotókos
In Catholic theology, Mary’s title as “Mother of God” (Theotokos in Greek) underscores her role as the mother of Jesus, who is both God and man. This title was formally recognized during the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD, affirming Mary’s unique relationship with her divine Son. Through her fiat, her “yes” to God’s plan, Mary became the vessel through which God entered the world, bringing salvation to humanity.
The significance of Mary’s maternity extends beyond her biological relationship with Jesus. As the Mother of God, Mary is also the spiritual mother of all believers. In John’s Gospel, Jesus entrusts Mary to the care of the beloved disciple, symbolizing her maternal role in the life of the Church. Catholics turn to Mary as a model of faith, humility, and obedience, seeking her intercession and protection in their spiritual journey.
The Feast of Mary, Mother of God
The Feast of Mary, Mother of God, invites believers to reflect on the profound mystery of the Incarnation and to deepen their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through prayers, hymns, and devotions, Catholics honor Mary’s role in God’s plan of salvation and seek her maternal guidance in their lives.
On this day, Catholics are encouraged to attend Mass and participate in the liturgical celebrations honoring Mary. Priests often offer special blessings for families, invoking Mary’s intercession for their protection and well-being. It is also a time for personal reflection and renewal, as believers start the new year by entrusting themselves to Mary’s maternal care.
In addition to its theological significance, the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, serves as a reminder of the dignity and sanctity of motherhood. Mary’s example inspires all mothers to embrace their vocation with love, courage, and faith, following her example of selfless devotion to God and to others.
As we commemorate the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, let us rejoice in the gift of her maternity and seek her intercession in our lives. May her example of faith and obedience inspire us to deepen our relationship with her Son, Jesus Christ, and to live as faithful disciples in the world today.
The Center of History
God became flesh through Mary, began to be part of a people, constituted the center of history. My prayer “Mother of God and ours, from the first day of the year. I want to consecrate myself and my family, everything I have, do and am to Jesus through your hands, Mary. May my year be surrounded by your blessing and protection. In everything I want to be more of God. Amen.”
Prayer to The Feast of Mary Mother of God
“Mother of God and ours, from the first day of the year. I want to consecrate myself and my family, everything I have, do and am to Jesus through your hands, Mary. May my year be surrounded by your blessing and protection. In everything I want to be more of God. Amen.”
