Today is a day to be amazed by the Mother of God ( Pope Francis, 2019).
At the beginning of the year, let us implore from Mary the grace to be amazed at the God of surprises.

Mary is the Queen of peace, who triumphs over evil and leads us along paths of goodness, who restores unity to her children, who teaches us compassion.
Let us together pray these words to Our Lady: “We fly to thy protection, O Holy Mother of God”.

On 17 December 2020, the Holy See published the Holy Father’s Message for the 54th World Day of Peace, which will be celebrated on 1 January 2021. The theme chosen by Pope Francis is “A Culture of Care as a Path to Peace“. In his message, the Holy Father states: “The culture of care thus calls for a common, supportive and inclusive commitment to protecting and promoting the dignity and good of all, a willingness to show care and compassion, to work for reconciliation and healing, and to advance mutual respect and acceptance. As such, it represents a privileged path to peace.”
Learn more about the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God through our parish subscription to Formed, free for our parishioners (see registration details):
Image: Sassoferrato, The Virgin in Prayer, National Gallery, London.