The Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin is celebrated on May 31.
We celebrate Mary visiting her cousin Elizabeth while she was pregnant with Jesus. Elizabeth was six months pregnant with St. John the Baptist. When they met, the baby lept for joy in Elizabeth’s womb.
Not only the baby, but Mary and Elizabeth were filled with joy. Elizabeth tells Mary:
“Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.”
Mary responds with the Magnificat which has become a beautiful hymn of praise and thanksgiving.
Magnificat
My soul does magnify the Lord:
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior
Because He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaid: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
For He that is mighty has done great things to me: and holy is His Name.
And His mercy is from generation until generations, to them that fear Him.
He has showed might with His arm: He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.
He has put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He has received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy:
As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed for ever.
As we celebrate the Feast of the Visitation let us reflect on how important our families are to us. Imagine the joy Elizabeth and Mary shared together as they anticipated the birth of their babies! It is important that we too, give thanks to God for the many blessings he has bestowed on us and our families.
God hugs you.
Quote of St. Hildegarde of Bingen; Feast day Sept. 17
May is the Month of Our Lady