Dear Friends in Christ:

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is traditionally celebrated on December 8.  This year December 8th falls on a Sunday, the Second Sunday of Advent.  Since the Sundays of Advent are more prominent and take precedence, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception will be transferred to the following Monday, December 9, 2024.  

All the Faithful are reminded that the Immaculate Conception is observed as a Holy Day of Obligation.  We are obliged to celebrate the Sacrifice of the Mass in honor of the sacred mystery of prevenient grace that prepared the young virgin of Nazareth to be the mother of the Redeemer and share in the saving work of her Son, Jesus.

Pope Francis gives his blessing during the closing Mass of the Synod of Bishops on synodality in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican Oct. 27, 2024.

National Vocation Awareness Week will be c