January First is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics (meaning that Mass attendance is required), also observed by some Protestants (Anglicans & Lutherans) as a related feast. On this day, the Church proclaims Mary as Theotokos (God-bearer), affirming that the Son she conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit is truly God and truly man. The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is thus a liturgical celebration observed on January 1st and marks the octave of Christmas, celebrating her divine motherhood.

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Audio credits: Breathe Bible podcast (LifeAudio Podcast Network, Salem Web Network); Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons-Herod and Joseph, 25dec2019 (Word on Fire Catholic Ministries); Saint of the Day with Mike Roberts-January 1 Solemnity Of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Jan. 1, 2024 (Covenant Network). Saint of the Day podcast: The Flight into Egypt of the Holy Family (26dec2023), Greek Orthodox Deacon Jerome Atherholt and Ancient Faith Radio. The Saint of the Day podcast (S1E319 St. Joseph 19mar2023). Saint of the Day with Mike Roberts: Solemnity Of Saint Joseph (episode e324, 19mar2024). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.