Words We Love : Immaculate Conception

–noun Roman Catholic Church .

the dogma of the unique privilege by which the Virgin Mary was conceived in her mother's womb without the stain of original sin through the anticipated merits of Jesus Christ.

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is marked on 8 December which always seems to be a point of confusion for some Roman Catholics and non-Catholics alike as it falls just 17 days before Christmas. (how can there be a conception and then birth a little more than a fortnight later?). Immacualate Conception refers to the conception of Mary, the Blessed Virgin, who is often called the Immaculata, especially in art.

The Feast of the Annunciation (25 March) marks when Jesus Christ was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of Mary. 25 March falls exactly nine months prior to Christmas.

So the next time someone wishes you "Happy Holidays" keep in mind that holidays like the Feast of the Immaculate Conception are one of the many celebrations, er holidays, of the season.

The Church of the Immaculate Conception in Montclair NJ is named in honor of Blessed Virgin.