Celebrating the Feast of Mary, Mother of the Church

Posted on June 9, 2025 by The Lamplighter

Introduction

Virgin Mary Mother of the Church

On the Monday after Pentecost, the Catholic Church joyfully celebrates the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. This feast, instituted by Pope Francis in 2018, invites us to honor Mary’s unique role as the spiritual mother of all Christians and the Church itself. Rooted in Scripture and tradition, this celebration highlights Mary’s loving presence from the Cross to the birth of the Church at Pentecost. As we mark this special day, let’s explore the historical background of this feast and discover ways to live out its message in our daily lives.

The Historical Background of the Feast

The title “Mary, Mother of the Church” has deep roots in Christian theology, beginning with the events of salvation history. At the Annunciation, Mary’s “fiat” (Luke 1:38) marked her acceptance of God’s plan, making her the mother of Jesus, the Head of the Church. Her maternal role extended to all disciples at the foot of the Cross, where Jesus entrusted her to the Apostle John, saying, “Woman, behold your son,” and to John, “Behold your mother” (John 19:26–27). This moment is understood as Christ giving Mary as mother to the entire Church.

Mary’s presence continued at Pentecost, where she prayed with the apostles in the upper room (Acts 1:14), witnessing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the Church’s birth. Early Church Fathers, such as St. Augustine, recognized her as a mother to Christians, nurturing the faithful through her intercession. By the fifth century, the Council of Ephesus (431) affirmed Mary as Theotokos (Mother of God), solidifying her role in salvation.

The title “Mother of the Church” gained prominence over time. In the 12th century, St. Bernard of Clairvaux described Mary as a mother to all believers. During the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), Lumen Gentium called her “the mother of the members of Christ” (LG 53). In 1964, Pope Paul VI formally proclaimed Mary as Mother of the Church, a title embraced by the faithful.

The idea of a dedicated feast day emerged gradually. St. John Paul II included the invocation “Mother of the Church” in the Litany of Loreto in 1980 and promoted devotion to her under this title. In 2018, Pope Francis decreed that the Monday after Pentecost be celebrated as the memorial of Mary, Mother of the Church, to foster devotion to her maternal role. The decree emphasized Mary’s presence at Pentecost and her ongoing care for the Church, making the feast a fitting extension of the liturgical calendar’s focus on the Holy Spirit.

ANTWERP, BELGIUM – SEPTEMBER 5, 2013: Paint of Crucifixion as part of Seven Sorrows of Virgin cycle by Josef Janssens from years 1903 – 1910 in the cathedral of Our Lady. By Renata Sedmakova

The Significance of the Feast

The feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, celebrates her spiritual motherhood and her vital role in the life of the Church. As the mother of Jesus, Mary is uniquely united to the Mystical Body of Christ, guiding and interceding for all its members. Her presence at Pentecost underscores her role as a model of prayer and openness to the Holy Spirit, inspiring the Church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel.

This feast also highlights Mary’s universal motherhood. From her apparitions at Guadalupe to Fatima, she has appeared across cultures, calling all people to her Son. Her maternal care unites the Church, fostering a sense of family among believers. The timing of the feast—immediately following Pentecost—reminds us that Mary’s intercession empowers the Church to live out its mission in the Spirit.

Why This Feast Matters Today

In our digital age, the feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, offers a powerful reminder of our call to unity and mission. Mary’s example of humility and obedience challenges us to say “yes” to God’s will, even amidst the noise of modern life. Her maternal love invites us to turn to her in prayer, especially through the Rosary, seeking guidance for personal and communal challenges.

As digital disciples, we can share the message of this feast through our platforms, posting reflections, prayers, or images of Mary to inspire others. Her call to “do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5) encourages us to live out our faith authentically, whether online or in our communities. This feast also prompts us to support the Church’s mission, from serving the poor to spreading the Gospel, following Mary’s example of selfless love.

Reflection Questions

How does Mary’s role as Mother of the Church inspire you to grow closer to her Son?
In what ways can you honor Mary’s maternal care in your daily prayer or actions?
How might you use your digital presence to share the joy of this feast with others?

Prayer

O God, Father of mercies, whose Only Begotten Son, as he hung upon the Cross, chose the Blessed Virgin Mary, his Mother, to be our Mother also; grant, we pray, that with her loving help, your Church may be more fruitful day by day and, rejoicing in the holiness of her children, may draw all people to the embrace of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.

A French prayer card depicting Mater Ecclesiae hovering St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Conclusion

The feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, is a beautiful opportunity to honor the Blessed Virgin’s maternal love and her vital role in the life of the Church. From her fiat to her presence at Pentecost, Mary guides us to her Son, inspiring us to live as faithful disciples. As we celebrate this memorial, let us emulate her humility, prayerfulness, and service, using our digital platforms to share her message of love. May Mary, Mother of the Church, intercede for us as we strive to build a Church that reflects her Son’s light.

How will you celebrate the feast of Mary, Mother of the Church? Share your thoughts or prayer intentions in the comments below, and let’s journey together in faith!