Mary, Mother of God
Virgin mother of Jesus Christ, venerated as intercessor and spiritual mother to all believers.
Patronage
Motherhood, virgins, the Church, various nations and cities, protection during childbirth
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Mary of Nazareth was a Jewish woman from Galilee who became the mother of Jesus Christ. According to Christian tradition, she was chosen by God to bear the Messiah and consented to this calling despite her youth and virginity. Throughout the Gospels, she is portrayed as a woman of deep faith who pondered the mysteries of her son's mission, even as she suffered witnessing his passion and crucifixion. Present at Pentecost with the apostles, she became a venerated figure in the early Church. The Catholic Church teaches that Mary was conceived without original sin (the Immaculate Conception) and was assumed bodily into heaven at the end of her earthly life. Devotion to Mary developed significantly throughout Christian history, with her intercession sought for protection, guidance, and spiritual motherhood toward the faithful.
Prayer
Prayer to Mary, Mother of God (The Memorare)
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Traditional prayer from Catholic tradition