Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

"Looking at her, we recognize the loftiness and beauty of God's plan for everyone: to become holy and immaculate in love (cf. Eph 1: 4), in the image of our Creator.... What a great gift to have Mary Immaculate as mother! A mother resplendent with beauty, the transparency of God's love. " ~Pope Benedict XVI, Homily on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, 12/8/2007

Ave Maria! Tota pulchra es, Maria! You are all beautiful, Mary! God's grace makes you so! You "let all God's glory through" at every moment of your life, whatever you were doing, wherever you were -- Nazareth, Bethlehem, Egypt, Cana, Calvary, the Upper Room, and now united with your Beloved Son forever, reigning "in splendor with Jesus our King." The Almighty has done great things for you, Mary -- and for us, too, especially in giving you to us to be our loving Mother. Help us to shine with God's love and yours, to reflect the glory of your Son, who is forever the light of the world. We love you, dear Mary! Your praises we sing! And we rejoice forever with you in the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Ave, ave, ave Maria! Amen! Alleluia!