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Immaculate Heart of Mary

Explore the history and miracles of Mary's Immaculate Heart with feast days, fasting, prayer and biblical insights

When is Immaculate Heart of Mary Celebrated in 2025

June 28, 2025

Is Immaculate Heart of Mary a Holy Day of Obligation

No—universally it isn’t, though some local bishops’ conferences may designate it as such in their regions.

Is Immaculate Heart of Mary a Fast or Abstinence Day

Neither.

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Meaning and History of Immaculate Heart of Mary

Meaning of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

The Immaculate Heart of Mary symbolizes the pure, tender, and unwavering love that Mary has for her Son and for all humanity. It stands as a model of charity and humility, inviting us to follow her example in living a life full of grace and dedication to God. This heart represents not only her joys and sorrows but also her deep maternal care for each of us, reminding us that we are called to love and serve with the same purity and selflessness.

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 Patronage and Protection 

 
  • The Immaculate Heart of Mary is honored as a powerful intercessor and protector, especially for families and children. Many faithful turn to her in times of need, trusting in her maternal care and guidance.
  • Devotees believe that her heart, free from sin, embodies pure love and compassion, making her the patron of virtues such as hope, charity, and obedience.
  • Religious orders such as the Carmelites and other Marian congregations have deep devotion to her, often dedicating prayers and novenas to invoke her protection and intercession.
  • Symbol of Purity: Mary's heart embodies sinless devotion and true purity.
  • Model of Love: It inspires us to love others as Mary loves her Son.
  • Call to Conversion: Mary’s heart urges believers to turn away from sin and embrace a life of virtue.

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 Miracles and Divine Intercession 

 
  • Numerous miracles have been attributed to the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. From reported healings to inexplicable deliverances in times of peril, her maternal care is seen as a beacon of hope in moments of crisis.
  • Many pilgrims recount experiencing profound spiritual consolations or physical healings after praying to the Immaculate Heart, reinforcing the belief that her heart is a source of divine grace.
  • Apparitions in various parts of the world have strengthened the devotion, where the faithful report messages of repentance, conversion, and trust in God's mercy through her loving intercession.

History of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary has grown over centuries, nurtured by saints, mystics, and the Church’s teachings.

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 Rich Devotional Traditions and Feast Celebrations 

 
  • The feast day of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is celebrated in many Catholic communities, offering an opportunity to meditate on her virtues and her role as a compassionate mother guiding the Church.
  • Liturgical practices include special prayers, processions, and the recitation of the Litany of the Immaculate Heart, which invite the faithful to experience her maternal love and protection.
  • Artistic representations such as paintings and statues depict her heart often crowned with thorns and surrounded by rays of light, symbolizing her purity despite the sorrows she has shared with her Son, Jesus.

The practice became widely known through various Marian apparitions and messages which called for a renewal of spirit and conversion of hearts. This devotion was also emphasized during important Church anniversaries and papal blessings, highlighting Mary’s role as an intercessor and guide. Over time, the faithful have embraced this symbol as a source of consolation, hope, and spiritual renewal.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Prayer

Immaculate Heart of Mary Prayer

 

O Immaculate Heart of Mary, precious Mother of our Savior, we come before you with humble hearts in this sacred hour. You, who have been so graciously favored by God, intercede for us with unwavering love and tender care. Through the example of your pure and consecrated heart, guide us to live in the light of your Son, Jesus Christ.

In your maternal compassion, we ask you to obtain for us the grace to purify our hearts, to walk faithfully in the footsteps of your Son, and to seek truth in every moment of our lives. Let your gentle intercession inspire us and draw us closer to the eternal love of God.

  • For purification of heart: May your immaculate heart cleanse us from sin and fill us with divine grace.
  • For guidance in life: Inspire us to follow the path of righteousness and to emulate the humility and charity you so perfectly embody.
  • For protection and hope: Shield us from the snares of evil, and lead us always toward the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

O Sweet Heart of Mary, we entrust our hopes, our struggles, and our lives to your care. Pray for us, now and at the hour of our death, so that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen.

 

Immaculate Heart of Mary Bible Quotes and Reflection

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Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.

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Angel Gabriel, Luke 1:28

At the Annunciation, as the angel greets Mary with a message of hope and divine favor.

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My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit rejoiceth in God my Savior.

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Mary (in her Magnificat), Luke 1:46-47

During her visit to Elizabeth, Mary praises God for His mighty deeds and her special role in His plan.

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And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.

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John, Revelation 12:1

In a marvelous vision, the imagery has been lovingly embraced by the Church as symbolizing the pure and radiant heart of Mary.

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Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.

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Mary, Luke 1:38

At the moment of the Annunciation, Mary humbly accepts God’s will, showing her perfect trust and openness to His plan.

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Do whatever He tells you.

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Mary, John 2:5

At the Wedding at Cana, Mary gently intercedes to prompt the servants to heed Jesus’ instructions, revealing her caring and influential heart.

FAQs

Answer your queries on the Immaculate Heart of Mary feast, exploring its sacred history, traditions, and profound Catholic devotion.

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When is the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary?

Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

  • Date: It is celebrated on the Saturday after the second Sunday after Pentecost.
  • Significance: This day marks a special reminder of Mary’s pure and loving heart in our liturgical calendar.
What does the Immaculate Heart of Mary represent?

Representation of the Immaculate Heart

  • Symbolism: It represents Mary’s deep love for God and her unyielding purity.
  • Spiritual Meaning: Her heart is a symbol of hope, charity, and constant intercession for all souls.
How is the Immaculate Heart of Mary celebrated?

Celebration of the Immaculate Heart

  • Liturgy: Special Masses, processions, and devotions are held, inviting the faithful to meditate on her virtues.
  • Community: Parishes often organize prayer vigils and novenas that highlight her maternal care and divine grace.
How is the Immaculate Heart different from the Immaculate Conception?

Difference from the Immaculate Conception

  • Immaculate Conception: Refers to Mary being conceived without original sin.
  • Immaculate Heart: Focuses on her internal disposition—her profound love, purity, and compassionate intercession throughout her life.
What prayers are linked to the Immaculate Heart of Mary?

Prayers Linked to the Immaculate Heart

  • Litany: The Litany of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is a well-known prayer invoking her intercession.
  • Novenas and Devotions: Additional prayers include novenas, the Memorare, and other Marian devotions dedicated to her heart.

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