St. Patrick's and St. Macnissi's

08/09/2026

08/09/2026

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Church has celebrated Mary’s birth since at least the sixth century. A September birth was chosen because the Eastern Church begins its Church year with September. The September 8 date helped determine the date for the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.

Scripture does not give an account of Mary’s birth. However, the apocryphal Protoevangelium of James fills in the gap. This work has no historical value, but it does reflect the development of Christian piety. According to this account, Anna and Joachim are infertile but pray for a child. They receive the promise of a child who will advance God’s plan of salvation for the world. Such a story, like many biblical counterparts, stresses the special presence of God in Mary’s life from the beginning.

Saint Augustine connects Mary’s birth with Jesus’ saving work. He tells the earth to rejoice and shine forth in the light of her birth. “She is the flower of the field from whom bloomed the precious lily of the valley. Through her birth the nature inherited from our first parents is changed.” The opening prayer at Mass speaks of the birth of Mary’s Son as the dawn of our salvation, and asks for an increase of peace.

Praying for all named Mary and Maria today.
Mary our Blessed Mother intercede for all.

07/09/2026

On Tuesday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Parish of St. James in Medjugorje will pray the Rosary while going up Apparition Hill, beginning at 2:00 PM, marking the 25th anniversary of the placement of Our Lady’s statue on Apparition Hill.

Mary TV will broadcast the Rosary live on MaryTV.tv

07/09/2026

Some tickets still available