A Feast Unlike Most Saints’ Days
Today, September 8, Catholics around the world celebrate the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary. While the Church doesn’t throw birthday parties for most saints, Our Lady is special—her birth was a turning point in salvation history. Without her “yes” to God, there would be no Christmas, no Incarnation, and no redemption.
Why September 8?
The Church has observed Mary’s Nativity since at least the 6th century, with origins tied to the dedication of a church in Jerusalem built on the site traditionally believed to be her birthplace (St. Anne’s Basilica, near the Pool of Bethesda) (Catholic News Agency). The Eastern Church led the way, and Rome followed by the 7th century, fixing the feast on September 8—exactly nine months after December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
More Than Just a Birthday
The Catechism reminds us that Mary’s role is central to God’s plan: “To become the mother of the Savior, Mary was enriched by God with gifts appropriate to such a role” (CCC 490). Her birthday is celebrated not just because she was born, but because her birth signals the dawn of salvation. As St. Augustine put it, “She is the flower of the field from whom bloomed the precious lily of the valley” (Sermon 51).
The Dawn of Salvation
Every birth is a cause for joy, but Mary’s was uniquely hopeful for all humanity. The Fathers of the Church saw her as the bridge between the Old and New Covenants. Pope St. John Paul II described her as “the dawn of salvation” (Redemptoris Mater, 1987).
Why It Matters Today
Celebrating Mary’s birthday also teaches us something practical. In a culture that downplays motherhood and often treats children as burdens, the Church lifts up a humble girl from Nazareth whose “fiat”—her yes—changed the course of history. Her birthday reminds us that every life, from its very beginning, has meaning and purpose.
A Celebration Worth Sharing
So light a candle, say a “Hail Mary,” and maybe even enjoy a slice of cake in her honor. Today we rejoice not only in Our Lady’s birth but in the God who gave her to us as Mother of the Church and Queen of Heaven. Happy Birthday, Blessed Mother!
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