President Trump on Monday issued a formal message recognizing the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, praising the religious devotion of Catholic Americans and highlighting the Blessed Virgin Mary’s enduring, two-and-a-half-century role in the American story.
The statement, released on the December 8 Holy Day, honored “every American celebrating December 8 as a Holy Day honoring the faith, humility, and love of Mary, mother of Jesus and one of the greatest figures in the Bible.”
The President’s message centered on the Catholic belief in Mary’s freedom from original sin and her acceptance of the divine. He recalled the moment, according to Holy Scripture, when the Angel Gabriel greeted her with the news of bearing Jesus, leading to Mary’s heroic response.
“In one of the most profound and consequential acts of history, Mary heroically accepted God’s will with trust and humility: ‘Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word,’” the message quoted.
The President noted Mary’s distinct place in U.S. history, citing the nation’s consecration to the mother of Christ in 1792 and the attribution of General Andrew Jackson’s victory in the 1815 Battle of New Orleans to her assistance.
Concluding the tribute, the President drew a direct link from Mary’s legacy to modern global challenges, urging citizens to draw inspiration from her example of peace, particularly in relation to current conflicts.
“Today, we look to Mary once again for inspiration and encouragement as we pray for an end to war and for a new and lasting era of peace, prosperity, and harmony in Europe and throughout the world,” the statement read, before concluding with the traditional “Hail, Mary” prayer.
