“It is fitting … that the year should open by invoking her … as the Holy Mother of God. For those words … express the joyful certainty that the Lord, a tiny Child in his Mamma’s arms, has united himself forever to our humanity … Mary knows our needs; she intercedes to make grace overflow in our lives and to guide them to authentic fulfilment … Whenever we are tempted to retreat into ourselves, let us run to her; whenever we are no longer able to untie the knots in our lives, let us seek refuge in her. Our times, bereft of peace, need a Mother who can reunite the human family.  Let us look to Mary … She cares for us and remains close to us.”        – excerpts from Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis, January 1, 2024, Saint Peter’s Basilica

The great Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, is celebrated each year on January 1. It is a holy day of obligation. Mass will be offered at 12:10 p.m., CT, inside the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal (Saint Mary’s of the Barrens Church) in Perryville, Missouri. All are invited to join us in person or in spirit.

This feast is a beautiful opportunity to send your petitions to the Shrine and/or request a Votive Light to burn for your special intentions in this new year.

Join with us in reciting this beautiful Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary as an additional way to celebrate and honor the Mother of God.