Mary was a young Jewish girl living in Nazareth when a messenger from the Lord announced that she was to be the bearer of the Son of God to the world. Her response ‘Let it be to me according to your word’ revealed her natural sense of obedience to God and her reverence for his Word, showing her to be worthy of be the bearer of the Word made flesh.This day is now celebrated as the major feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary throughout most Christendom. 

In some churches it is also celebrated as the feast of the Assumption commemorating the death of Mary and also celebrating her entrance into heaven.

‘Francis embraced the mother of the Lord Jesus with an inexpressible love since she made the Lord of Majesty a brother to us and, through her, we have obtained mercy.’

(The Major Legend of St Francis by Saint Bonaventure)

‘Hail, his Palace!
Hail, his Tabernacle!
Hail, his Dwelling!
Hail, his Robe!
Hail, his Servant!
Hail, his Mother!

(The Salutation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, by Saint Francis)

Music for reflection: Salve Regina by Eustache Du Caurroy CRD 3518 © CRD Records Ltd (used with permission) The Assumption