Introduction: Mary and the Celebration of the VisitationThe feast of the *Visitation* of Mary to Elizabeth, celebrated on December 21st and renewed on May 31st, presents itself as a profound theological and liturgical mystery. This celebration, rooted in biblical, patristic, and liturgical tradition, both Eastern and Western, evokes the image of the bride in the Song of Songs, imbuing the feast with a distinct joy and lyricism. Mary’s careful journey (Lk 1:39) is not merely a historical narrative but also a deep theological symbol, presenting Mary as an icon of the Church, dedicated to God. The image of Mary in this celebration serves as a gateway to contemplate the divine presence, not only in the Virgin, but also in the whole community of believers, reflecting God’s presence among His people.
The Sacred Encounter: Mary, Elizabeth, and the Prelude to Redemption
The meeting of Mary with Elizabeth (Lk 1:39-45), followed by the Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55), is an event brimming with theological and liturgical significance. This encounter, structured in quiaism, involves not only the two women but also their children. John the Baptist, upon receiving Mary’s intercession (Dictionary Mariological: Intercession of Mary), becomes the first saint to be sanctified. This moment is a foreshadowing of Easter, where the spirit of prophecy is poured out upon Mary and Elizabeth. The Magnificat, a hymn of blessing and thanksgiving, encapsulates all Messianic hope and the blessings of the Old Testament, uniting them in a song of joy and redemption.
Liturgy of Advent: Reflecting on Mary in a Time of Expectation
The pre-natal Sunday in Advent highlights Marian devotion, incorporating liturgical traditions dating back to December Tempora. This day features specific readings from the lectionary that shed light on different aspects of salvation history. These readings, including prophecies and Gospel accounts, focus on the figure of Mary, emphasizing her role in the history of redemption. The Marian emphasis on this Sunday is not isolated but integrated into a broader context of Christology, Pneumatology, and Ecclesiology, where Mary is seen as the exemplary model of listening to and obeying God.
Marian Masses in Advent: Deepening the Mystery of Incarnation
During Marian masses in Advent, we encounter a repetition and deepening of Marian themes and images. Prayers, especially the prayer after Communion, highlight the intimate connection between Mary, the Eucharist, and salvation. This liturgical moment invites the faithful to meditate on God’s mercy manifested through Mary, preparing them to receive the fruit of salvation.
Contemplation and Action: The Visitation as a Call to Christian Life
The celebration of Mary’s Visitation to Elizabeth is more than a historical event. It is a call to reflection and action. In the Advent liturgy, we are invited to contemplate the depth of the Incarnation and redemption mysteries, seeing Mary as a model of faith, hope, and love. This period offers readers the chance to bring Christ to others, as Mary brought the joy of salvation to Elizabeth. The Visitation becomes a living metaphor for the spiritual journey of each Christian, inviting us to be carriers of God’s presence in a world yearning for hope and redemption.The celebration of the Visitation of Mary is part of the rich tapestry of Marian worship in Advent. The Apostolic Exhortation *Marialis Cultus* by Pope Paul VI guides Marian piety within the liturgical context. Read *Marialis Cultus (Paul VI)*.
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Learn about the oldest Marian image in the Catacomb of Priscilla.
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