Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Dec 8th marks the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. This is not the conception of Jesus, it is the conception of Mary to St. Anne & Joachim. She was conceived without sin! This is a big deal, because this doctrine recognizes the fact that Mary was born pure, without original sin, a perfect vessel for the Christ Child. Here are some simple activities you can do with your family this weekend to celebrate!

Read this article on American Catholic about how this teaching came about. I find it interesting that it took some time for the faithful to agree upon her conception without sin, while it now seems so obvious to us now. This is a great example of how the Fathers of our Church have brought forth the teachings of the Catholic Faith with such care.

Embroider St. Anne and Mary on a dishcloth for your kitchen.

Print pattern and read more about Faith in Embroidery at Modest Mommies

BAKING COOKIES

Catholic Culture.org has an article about "Celebrating the Feast… in the home." It hints at making Gingerbread cookies to recall the sweet fragrance of Mary. I'd say this is a good day to do all the cookie baking! Visit Catholic Cuisine for the St. Nick Gingerbread Men (feast Dec 6th) and more Catholic kitchen ideas!

*Catholic Cuisine: Immaculate Conception

*Catholic Cuisine: Saint Nicholas

Make a paper Mary statue.