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Read More →The Most Holy Name of Mary
Long before it was a feast, the name of Mary was a whisper on the lips of frightened, hopeful, grateful Christians. To say “Mary” was to reach for help, for comfort, for a mother. Today’s memorial of the Most Holy Name of Mary honours that ancient, tender habit of the heart. Read today’s Catholic Daily Readings here.
What Is the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary?
The Most Holy Name of Mary is a Marian memorial that honours the name of the Blessed Virgin Mary and all it means to Christians. Just as the Church celebrates the Holy Name of Jesus, this day lifts up the name of His mother as a source of comfort, protection, and intercession. It is celebrated on 12 September.
The Meaning of Mary’s Name
The name Mary, Miriam in Hebrew, has been given many beautiful meanings by Christian writers over the centuries, among them “Star of the Sea,” a title that pictures her as a guiding light for those crossing the stormy sea of life. To call on her name has always been, for Catholics, a way of asking their heavenly mother to pray for them.
How the Feast Began
Devotion to Mary’s name grew across the Middle Ages, and a feast was granted to various places over time. It took on new importance after the Battle of Vienna in 1683, when Christian forces, having sought Our Lady’s help, turned back a great siege. In thanksgiving, Pope Innocent XI extended the feast of the Holy Name of Mary to the whole Church.
Its Place in the Calendar Today
After the reforms of the Church’s calendar, the memorial is kept today as an optional memorial on 12 September, following close after the feast of Mary’s birth on 8 September. First we celebrate her birth, then, fittingly, we honour her name.
A Name to Call Upon
Saints across the centuries have encouraged Christians to call on Mary’s name in times of trouble and temptation. To say her name in prayer is to turn instinctively to a mother’s help, trusting that she leads us always to her Son. The name is never an end in itself; like Mary herself, it points straight to Jesus.
Lessons from the Holy Name of Mary
This memorial reminds us that faith is carried not only in grand doctrines but in simple, loving habits, like the quiet calling of a holy name. It invites us to keep Mary close in daily life, to turn to her in fear and gratitude alike, and to let her lead us, as she always does, to Christ.
Prayer in Honour of the Holy Name of Mary
Most Holy Name of Mary, sweet comfort of Christians, whenever I am afraid or tempted or grateful, teach me to call on you. Mother of God, at the sound of your name draw my heart to your Son, and pray for me now and at every hour of my need. Amen.
Conclusion
The memorial of the Most Holy Name of Mary honours something wonderfully simple: the name a mother’s children call in every kind of need. For centuries that name has been a refuge, and it points, as Mary always does, straight to the saving name of Jesus.
Share this story with someone who needs it, and read today’s readings to pray along. 🙏❤️🙏
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