The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God

Today the Church celebrates the Octave Day of the Nativity of the Lord, the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. The assigned readings are Numbers 6:22-27, Galatians 4:4-7, and Luke 2:16-21. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 67 (Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6, 8).

For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:

YouTube: Psalm 67 - May God bless us in his mercy

The Gospel reading is as follows:

The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.

When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Reflections related to these readings and this feast day:

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: Mary. Mother of God (January 1, 2016)

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: Mary, Mother of God (January 1, 2016)

Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: Mary, the Mother of God?

Aleteia: Deacon Greg Kandra: "Today is Where Your Book Begins": Homily for January 1, Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God (31 DEC 5)

Vatican News Service: Pope Francis: homily for Mass on Feast of Mother of God (1 JAN 16)