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Friday, September 8, 2023

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Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary


Micah 5:1-4 or
Romans 8:28-30
Psalm 13:6
Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23

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an amazing day of grace

“We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His decree.” —Romans 8:28

It seemed that St. Joseph would divorce Mary, and Mary would be in danger of being executed as an adulteress (see Mt 1:19). However, Joseph obeyed God’s revelation, and God made “all things work together for the good” (Rm 8:28).

Mary, Joseph, and Jesus fled in the night to Egypt (Mt 2:13ff). The Holy Family was in danger. But they escaped Herod’s massacre of the baby boys of Bethlehem, and God made “all things work together for the good” (Rm 8:28).

Mary was at the foot of Jesus’ cross (see Jn 19:25). She saw up close her Son being tortured and murdered. She was in indescribable agony. However, her Son rose from the dead and made her Queen of heaven and earth. God made “all things work together for the good” (Rm 8:28).

On this day when we celebrate Mary’s birthday, some of you are on the verge of divorce, in danger of death, or in agony. Jesus loves you infinitely and has died on the cross and risen from the dead for love of you. On this birthday celebration of Mary, expect Jesus to make “all things work together for the good” (Rm 8:28).

Prayer:  Father, may I never forget this day.

Promise:  “Therefore the Lord will give them up, until the time when she who is to give birth has borne.” —Mi 5:2

Praise:  Horace, once a non-Christian, came to know Jesus as Lord because of an interest in the prophetic messages given at Marian apparitions.

Reference:  (For a related teaching on Mother Mary, view, download or order our leaflet on our website.)

Rescript:  In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period August 1, 2023 through September 30, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 4, 2023

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.