Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Feast Day: May 31

“Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” – Luke 1:45

A Feast of Joy and Charity

The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated on May 31, honors the joyful meeting between Mary and her cousin Elizabeth, both miraculously with child. This beautiful feast celebrates Mary’s charity, humility, and faith, as she brings the presence of Christ to Elizabeth and her unborn son, John the Baptist.

Mary’s Journey of Love

After the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel told Mary that she would be the Mother of God, Mary learned that her elderly cousin Elizabeth was also expecting a child through God’s grace. Filled with charity and humility, Mary traveled in haste to the hill country to assist Elizabeth, despite the challenges of the journey.

The Meeting of Two Mothers and Two Miracles

When Mary arrived, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and the child in her womb leapt for joy. Elizabeth proclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb” (Luke 1:42). This encounter is one of profound spiritual significance—the first time that Jesus, still in Mary’s womb, sanctifies another soul, that of John the Baptist.

In response, Mary offered her glorious song of praise, the Magnificat, proclaiming the greatness of the Lord and His mercy across generations.

A Model of Charity and Humility

Mary remained with Elizabeth for about three months, likely until John’s birth, helping her in her final months of pregnancy. This act of selfless service highlights Mary’s role not only as the Mother of God but as a model of Christian charity, humility, and attentiveness to the needs of others.

Patronage of Expectant Mothers and Christian Service

The Visitation is especially dear to expectant mothers, those in service ministries, and anyone seeking to follow Mary’s example of bringing Christ to others with love, humility, and joy.

A Witness to Joyful Faith and Loving Service

The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary reminds the faithful that faith naturally leads to action, and that true love for God overflows into love for neighbor. It is a feast of joy, hope, and the transforming presence of Christ brought into the world through Mary’s faithful “yes.”

Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Charity and Humility, pray for us!