St. Mary of Nazareth

Summary

A humble girl from Nazareth who said yes to God, Mary became the Mother of Jesus and the Mother of all believers. Her life of faith, courage, and love reveals the heart of God made visible.

Bio

  • Born: Traditionally c. 20 BC, Nazareth, Galilee

  • Died: Date unknown (believed to have been assumed body and soul into Heaven)

  • Feast Days: January 1 (Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God), August 15 (Assumption), September 8 (Nativity of Mary), December 8 (Immaculate Conception)

  • Patronage: Humanity, Mothers, The Church, All Christians, Numerous nations and causes

Overview

Mary of Nazareth stands at the center of salvation history. Chosen by God to bear His Son, she responded with complete trust: “Be it done to me according to your word.” Her faith allowed the Incarnation to unfold and her quiet presence accompanied Jesus from Bethlehem to the Cross. In every age, she continues to lead believers to her Son through her example of humility, obedience, and steadfast love.

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

Mother Mary

Life Story

Early Life
Scripture tells us little of Mary’s early years, but tradition holds that she was raised in faith by Saints Joachim and Anne in Nazareth. She lived simply, devoted to prayer and the law of the Lord.

The Annunciation and Motherhood
When the angel Gabriel appeared to her with the message that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, Mary’s courageous yes changed the world. She gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem, raised Him in Nazareth, and treasured every moment “in her heart.” She interceded at Cana, urging others to “do whatever He tells you,” and stood beneath the Cross as her Son gave His life for humanity.

Legacy
Mary’s life did not end in silence. The Church celebrates her Assumption (her being taken into Heaven) as a sign of hope for all who follow Christ. Through centuries of devotion, from Lourdes to Guadalupe, she has appeared as a mother to every culture, reminding the world of God’s mercy and nearness. Her Magnificat continues to echo as a song of faith, justice, and joy.

Virtues & Lessons

  • Total trust in God’s plan

  • Humility rooted in strength

  • Compassion for all who suffer

  • Perseverance in prayer

  • Faith that endures through silence and sorrow

Get Involved

  • Pray the Rosary daily with intentional reflection

  • Create a small Marian prayer space at home

  • Celebrate Marian feast days with acts of service

  • Practice saying “yes” to God’s will in small, daily choices