06/01/2026
Today...we celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is the moment when Mary goes to Elizabeth with the news that she is pregnant, and this older woman, also bearing a child (John the Baptizer) greets her warmly, and Mary proclaims the Magnificat:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Let us pray:
Father in heaven, by your grace the virgin mother of your incarnate Son was blessed in bearing him, but still more blessed in keeping your word: Grant us who honor the exaltation of her lowliness to follow the example of her devotion to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (note: this Feast Day is normally on May 31st, but has been transferred to June 1 for this year. Photo is of the statue "Mary as Prophet" by Peggy Parker).
