Solemnity of Mary
January 1, Monday
History and Significance of the Feast
The feast was formally established at the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s to highlight the importance of Mary in the theology of the Catholic Church and the Christian faith. Although Marian veneration had existed for centuries, it was at the Council that it was decided to establish a separate solemn feast on January 1st.
The day was chosen for the feast because January 1st marks the end of the Octave of the Nativity of Christ, which links the feast of Mary with the birth of Jesus Christ. Thus, the feast is dedicated not only to Mary herself, but also to her role in the mystery of the Incarnation - the birth of Jesus, God who became man.
Liturgical Features
Mass. On this day, a solemn mass is celebrated in Catholic churches in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The liturgy reads texts dedicated to Mary, her role as the Mother of God and her importance for the salvation of humanity.
Special Prayers. During the service, special prayers and hymns are said praising Mary for her role in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. These prayers often include an appeal to Mary as the intercessor for humanity before God.
Connections with Other Feasts
The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated immediately after Christmas, concluding the Octave of Christmas, an eight-day period of celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This feast is also associated with an ancient tradition of veneration of Mary, which has spread to the Catholic and Orthodox churches. Moreover, it falls at the beginning of the year, which symbolizes a new stage in the lives of Christians and encourages them to pray for peace and spiritual renewal.