Feast of the Immaculate Conception– 2021

A very important pillar of Catholic teaching is celebrated on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8. There is a popular idea that the day refers to the conception of Jesus by the Virgin Mary. It doesn’t. As a matter of fact, it is actually the conception of Mary herself that is referred to here. Although she was born in the natural biological manner, her conception is believed to be ‘immaculate’ by Catholics because God intervened, relieving Mary of original sin.

HISTORY OF FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
For centuries, theological dispute surrounded the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The argument followed the context of the word ‘immaculate,’ which refers to the belief that Mary – the mother of Jesus Christ, was herself conceived without original sin.

Throughout Christian history, the Immaculate Conception has been questioned by theologians. This topic remained open for debate until December 8, 1854, when Pope Pius IX declared it to be an essential principle of faith in the Catholic Church. The written statement on this is titled Ineffabilis Deus, which clarifies the importance of the divine concept of Immaculate Conception in the Catholic Church.

Many churches, particularly the Catholic Church, hold masses or special services to mark the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on or around December 8. Those that commemorate this holiday always prepare for it prior to its occurrence. In Rome, at the base of the Colonna della Immacolata; which stands at 12-meters tall by the statue of the Virgin Mary, the pope places a wreath. Members of the fire service hang a floral wreath on the arm of the statue.

While some people prefer to host dinners at home for their families, there are several other celebrations as well, creating a festive feel in the streets.

enjoy this Carol

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a public holiday in many countries. In Guam, it is also known as ‘Our Lady of Camarin Day,’ honoring a small wooden statue which is known as Santa Marian Kamalen or ‘Our Lady of Camarin.’ A procession is then followed by people who pray and honor Jesus Christ through his mother, Mary.

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