December 8th, 2025
“Migrant Virgin and Child” - Sister Armelle
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
By Catherine Richthammer
The Magnificat by Christine in Action
Today is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It is a beautiful reminder of God’s love as we recall that Mary was conceived in the womb of her mother, St. Anne, free from the stain of original sin. Just as God prepared Mary to be the mother of His Son, He invites us into a loving relationship with Him and has a special calling for us to share His love with the world.
I have always loved calling out to my heavenly Mother in times of need. She has brought me much consolation in times when I was afraid. A few years ago, I had the blessing to perform as Our Blessed Mother in a play entitled The Last Viking, which told the story of St. Magnus. The final scene depicts the devil tempting Magnus to give up the faith, but Magnus calls on the Blessed Mother to give him strength.
As I waited for the cue, I had a glimpse of Our Lady’s love. I recall waiting in the wings for my entrance, hearing the shrieks of the devil, and seeing Magnus struggling. I remember wanting to run out to help him, my son, to bring him back to His Lord. My heart melted in tenderness for Magnus. Though I was not initially cast to play Our Lady, God wanted me to experience this moment to recognize how Our Lady rushes to my aid in times of need.
This play helped me recognize how profound the words of the Memorare are, telling of our Lady’s prompt response:
“Remember, O Most Gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee do I come; before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.”
May you experience the love of Our Blessed Mother, who always seeks to bring her children to her Son. May she teach you how to prepare your heart for Christmas.
Catherine Richthammer is a preschool aide and theater teacher who loves to share the love of God with others through stories and song. She loves cantoring at Divine Liturgy to use her talents to serve God and His Church.
Sr. Armelle is a Bronx-based French American hermit and iconographer. You can find more about her here: stellamarisicon.com
Christine in Action is the creator of “Musical Catechesis” — catchy, authentically Catholic songs and videos that make learning the Faith fun and easy for the whole family. Her mission is to make Catholic faith formation memorable, accessible, and joyful through the power of music!