By John Petty, Catholic Editor
Statue of Our Lady, Manresa Jesuit Retreat House – Photo by John Petty
In the Roman Catholic Church, Dec. 8 marks the celebration of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Holy Day of Obligation that celebrates Mary’s sinlessness from the moment of her conception.
The Catholic Church is often noted for Her high view of Mariology—that is—the theological understanding of the personal nature of the Mother of God. Part of the Catholic Church’s unique understanding of Mariology is that from the very moment of Her conception in the womb of Her mother, Mary was completely free from Original Sin.
“The Immaculate Conception is my favorite Holy Day of Obligation,” senior Anna-Marie Comden said. “I love how we honor Mary as being set apart from the moment of conception, just as each one of us has a special purpose from the moment we are conceived.”
In the biblical story, God sent the Angel Gabriel to announce to Mary Her calling to bear the Son of God.
“The bearer of this womb, Mary, was free from sin,” said senior Johnny Vanderbaan. “Therefore, she made a suitable tabernacle for our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Mary Statue – Photo by John Petty
In this season of Advent, reflecting on God’s unique call for Mary serves as a reminder of her holiness, not only as the Mother of God, but also as the Mother of all Christians. Being absolutely clean from all sin, Mary continuously plays a unique role in Salvation History, interceding on behalf of her sons and daughters throughout the world.
Sing of Mary and Immaculate Mary were both sung during the 12:15 p.m. Liturgy in special honor of the solemnity. Furthermore, the Gloria and the Creed were said as well.
For this Solemnity, Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Chapel offered 12:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mass times. As a Holy Day of Obligation, all Roman Catholics were required to attend Mass.
“She was born sinless, and in fact was even conceived sinless (immaculately),” said Vanderbaan. “That is why we gather every year on the 8th of December to celebrate this amazing solemnity.”
The Saint 