September 8
Have you ever been excited for someone’s birthday?
Birthdays are a time to celebrate the gift of a person’s life. On September 8, the Catholic Church celebrates a very special birthday: the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which means the birth of Mary.
Mary would one day become the mother of Jesus. But before Mary held baby Jesus in her arms, Mary was a baby too!
Why Do We Celebrate Mary’s Birthday?
God had a special plan for Mary.
When Mary grew up, the angel Gabriel came to her with an incredible message: God had chosen her to become the mother of Jesus.
Mary answered:
“May it be done to me according to your word.” — Luke 1:38 (NABRE)
Mary trusted God and said yes to His plan.
Celebrating Mary’s birth gives us a chance to remember that God was preparing for the coming of Jesus long before the night He was born in Bethlehem.
Who Were Mary’s Parents?
Catholic tradition tells us that Mary’s parents were Saint Joachim and Saint Anne.
The Bible does not give us the story of Mary’s birth or name her parents. Their names come to us through early Christian tradition.
That is an important distinction for children to learn: some things we know directly from Scripture, while other traditions have been handed down through the Church.
Mary Was Part of God’s Plan
Imagine looking at baby Mary and knowing what was ahead.
One day she would hear the angel Gabriel’s message.
One day she would carry Jesus.
One day she would place Him in a manger.
She would watch Him grow.
She would follow Him throughout His life and remain near Him at the Cross.
And it all began with the birth of a little girl.
Mary’s story can remind children of something beautiful about their own lives, too: we don’t have to know everything God has planned for us today.
We can learn to trust Him one day at a time.
A Birthday Celebration for Mary
Families or classrooms can make September 8 special with a few simple activities. Children could make Mary a birthday card, draw a picture of Mary with baby Jesus, pray a Hail Mary together, bring flowers to a statue or picture of Mary, or have a small birthday treat after learning about the feast.
You could even ask:
If you could make Mary a birthday card, what would you write inside?
Let’s Pray
Dear God,
Thank You for the gift of Mary and for choosing her to be the mother of Jesus. Help us follow her example by trusting You, listening to You, and saying yes when You ask us to do what is good.
Bless our families and help us grow closer to Jesus each day.
Amen.
Try the Nativity of Mary Activity
After learning about Mary’s birthday, children can complete the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary activity page. They can reflect on Mary’s life, create something special for her birthday, and think about ways they can say yes to God in their own lives.
Happy Birthday, Mary! 🌸
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