Solemnity of Mary

Solemnity of Mary History

The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, is a significant event in the Catholic Church's liturgical calendar, observed with reverence worldwide. It's a feast that honours Mary as the mother of Jesus Christ, positioned in recognition of her role in salvation history, the mystery of the creation of Jesus, and her participation in the divine plan for humanity's redemption. This occasion stresses Mary's dignity and grace, emblematising her as a figure of obedience and faith.

In New Zealand, just as in other parts of the world, the Solemnity of Mary holds a particular place of esteem in the Catholic Church's calendar. The Catholic Church was established in New Zealand as early as 1838, paving the way for celebrations of feasts such as the Solemnity of Mary. This respect for Mary not only reinforces central motifs of the Christian faith but also aids in bridging cultural and ethnic divisions in New Zealand's multi-faceted society, as diverse groups find common ground in their shared veneration for Mary.

Observances of the Solemnity of Mary in New Zealand often consist of liturgical celebrations, including Mass, prayer services, and a special emphasis on Marian hymns and readings. Faithful across the island participate in these religious activities to commemorate Mary's integral role in Christian doctrine. The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, is celebrated on January 1, providing a spiritual opener that sets a reverential tone for the New Year for many in New Zealand.

Facts about Solemnity of Mary

• The Solemnity of Mary was at one time part of three feasts on January 1. They included the octave of the Lord, a recap of Christmas, and the Circumcision of the Lord. Many Catholics believe that the blood baby Jesus shed on his circumcision day was the beginning of his ministry as Redeemer.
• In Roman Catholicism, Mary is referred to as the Queen of Peace, since the Messiah is referred to as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). The Solemnity of Mary is also World Day of Prayer for Peace in the Catholic Church.
• Many Catholics turn to Mary for intercession, guidance, and as a model of faith and motherhood.
• The Solemnity of Mary also plays a role in advancing women's status in the church, as Mary is seen as the most prominent female figure in Christianity. It emphasizes women's significance and their potential to contribute towards society and religion.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Solemnity of Mary

Top things to do in NZ for Solemnity of Mary

• Pray for peace around the world. A popular prayer for this is the famous Prayer of St. Francis:

  Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life.

• Study how Mary's role has changed in the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Pius VII wrote about the dogma concerning the assumption of Mary in 1950. The belief proclaims that Mary didn't die but ascended into heaven like Christ did after his resurrection. Mary's assumption doesn't appear in scripture, but is referred to in early church writings. This dogma is a major theological difference between the Roman Catholic Church and Protestant denominations.
• Although not specific to New Zealand, on this holiday it is common to enjoy lamb dishes ( Mary is considered the "mother of the lamb," or Jesus), blueberry desserts (the color blue is frequently associated with Mary in Catholic tradition) and star shaped Foods (Mary is often referred to as the "Star of the Sea").
• Watch a movie that provides insight into Mary's devotion and faith; our recommendations are Mary of Nazareth (2012) and The Nativity Story (2006).