The Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Murillo

Don’t you know it is our Lady’s feast, and Mary had her mantle spread over us to save us from all harm?

COMMENT: The 8th of September is traditionally celebrated as the birthday of Mary, though we do not commemorate it this year because it falls on a Sunday.

Fr Doyle wasn’t speaking of the feast of the birth of Mary when he made the above comment to a soldier, but the sentiment is just as true on this day, and indeed, on every day of the year. Mary is our Mother who protects us and provides graces for us. From Fr Doyle’s writings it is clear that his devotion was deep and that he was aware of her maternal protection and favours throughout his life.

We too should have recourse to our Heavenly Mother every day of the year, but especially on her special feasts.