The Blessedness of Mary is not to be questioned.
The Holy Bible recognises her as the most blessed among all women (Luke 1:42). This is not just a New Testament reality but also the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). Mary is the chosen vessel through whom God’s promise to His people finds completion, and her life continues the great work of God’s salvation in the world.
Today, nine months after the celebration of the Immaculate Conception, the Church celebrates the Nativity (birthday) of the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to the Fathers of the Church, the birth of Mary is a “dawn before the rising of the Sun of Justice,” for through her, Christ, the Light of the World, enters human history.
The Sacred Tradition
Sacred Tradition also preserves a touching story of her conception and birth. The Protoevangelium of James, an ancient Christian writing, tells us about Mary’s parents, Saint Joachim and Saint Anne. For many years they were childless and prayed earnestly for a child. God answered their prayer, and Mary was conceived by the special grace of God, preserved from the stain of original sin. When she was born, her parents rejoiced and gave thanks, for they knew she was destined for something great. From her earliest days, Mary’s life was marked by God’s favour and set apart for His divine plan.
Friends, the birthday of Mary is a reminder that God keeps His promises and that He chooses the lowly to bring forth the greatest blessings. To celebrate Mary is to celebrate the faithfulness of God. Her life teaches us humility, obedience, and complete trust in God’s will.
Let us then renew our devotion to Mary, our Mother, who always leads us to her Son. May we honour her not just with words but with a life of faith, purity, and charity. Let us entrust our families, our nation, and all our intentions to her maternal care.
“All generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me” (Luke 1:48-49).
🙏 Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, pray for us.
Fr. James Anyaegbu
