Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God—January 1, 2025

A Holy Day of Obligation
January 1 marks the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.

A celebration that closes the Christmas octave and highlights Mary’s pivotal role in salvation history as the Mother of Jesus Christ. For Catholics in the United States, this is a Holy Day of Obligation, and Mass attendance is required.

As Pope Paul VI wrote in Marialis Cultus (1974):

“The Solemnity of Mary is a fitting occasion for renewing adoration of the newborn Prince of Peace, for listening once more to the glad tidings of the angels (Luke 2:14), and for imploring from God, through the Queen of Peace, the supreme gift of peace.”

January 1 is also observed as the World Day of Peace, making it a beautiful way to start the year in prayer and reflection.

Let us gather in joy and thanksgiving to honor Mary and welcome the New Year by fulfilling our obligation to attend Mass. See you there!