The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
is Monday, December 8, 2025, and is a Holy Day of Obligation.
Please see below for a message from Bishop Frank J. Dewane.
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As the Advent journey unfolds, our Blessed Mother is recognized and celebrated in a special way on Monday, December 8th, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Born without Original Sin, and chosen by God to bear His only Son, Mary plays an essential role in Christmas and in salvation history. Her Motherhood of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, made possible a pathway to Heaven for all the faithful. The Blessed Mother still intercedes on our behalf, drawing the faithful closer to Jesus, and to God, through prayer.
Honor Blessed Mary today, a Holy Day of Obligation, by attending Mass, and perhaps praying the Hail Mary throughout the day. Today’s Gospel is a powerful reminder to say our own “yes” to what God asks of us, as we hear Mary’s famous words to Angel Gabriel:
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to Your Word” (Luke 2:38).
With God all things are possible. May God bless you, and your family and let us be united in celebration of this Holy Day!
+ Frank J. Dewane
Bishop of the Diocese of Venice
in Florida
