Feast of Immaculate Conception (Thursday, 8th December) Holy Day of Obligation
Vigil Mass on Wednesday – 5.30pm & Thursday 8am and 10am.
On Thursday, 8th December, Christians all over the world celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This feast recalls a hugely decisive moment in salvation history when God intervenes to spare Mary [at her moment of conception in the womb of her mother, Ann], from the consequences of the sin of Adam, (Original sin).
What were/are these consequences of Original Sin? The Church teaches that because of Adam’s disobedience every human being ever born is contaminated by that original sin – resulting in the loss of innocence – where the human will is weakened, the intellect is darkened and human passions are inclined towards evil.
Why was Mary granted this special grace from God? For one reason only – Mary was singularly chosen to bring forth in her womb the Saviour of the world. It could not happen that this Saviour could dwell in the womb of a person contaminated in any way by sin – original or actual. Thus, Mary, seen by God, even before she took existence, as an exemplary disciple, is spared the contamination of that original sin and so is indeed a worthy vessel for the Christ to take human form and to be born. What was granted to Mary before Christ’s death and resurrection is now granted to all of us at Baptism.
O Mary conceived without original sin,
pray for us who have recourse to you.
