The Immaculate Conception

Mary, preserved from original sin from the first instant of her conception by the merits of Christ, defined as dogma by Pius IX in 1854.

The story

The Church had celebrated Mary's conception since the seventh century in the East. Bl. John Duns Scotus explained how she could be redeemed by being preserved rather than rescued. On December 8, 1854, Pius IX defined it in Ineffabilis Deus; four years later at Lourdes the Lady told Bernadette, "I am the Immaculate Conception." It is the patronal feast of the United States (CCC 490-493).

What Immaculate teaches

Grace comes first. Mary's sinlessness is entirely Christ's gift, which is why she can say "my spirit rejoices in God my Savior."

Patronage

the United States of America.

Prayer

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Amen.