Homily for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

People often have a hard time understanding why Catholics pray to Mary or make "such a big deal" about Mary. But that's not the case, at al! Yes, it’s true that Mary is given a great deal of honor in Catholicism, but, believe it or not, everything we say and do in relation to the Blessed Virgin Mary has far more to do with Jesus than it does Mary.

The truth is, If we want to be more like Jesus, we have to love and honor his mother, Mary. When we honor Mary, we are just honoring the work of God in her. In celebrating her life of holiness, we are really just celebrating the God who has done such wonderful things in her.

When we look to Mary, what we should see is the saving power of her Son. When we seek to imitate Mary, what we are imitating is her fidelity and commitment to Jesus. And when we pray to Mary, what we are seeking is the help and support to love Jesus more faithfully and trust in God more fully. Do not be afraid to draw close to Mary, she will lead you to Jesus.

Readings from December 8, 2021

Genesis 3:9-15, 20

Psalms 98:1, 2-3, 3-4

Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12

Luke 1:26-38