The Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church is celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost. In 2026, it falls on May 25.
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
This celebration was added to the universal calendar of the Catholic Church by Pope Francis in 2018. The title “Mother of the Church” reminds us that Mary is not only the Mother of Jesus, but also the spiritual mother of all Christians.
At the foot of the Cross, Jesus said to His disciple: “Behold, your mother” (John 19:27). From that moment, the Church has understood Mary as a mother who continues to care for and pray for God’s people.
Celebrated immediately after Pentecost, this memorial beautifully reminds us that as the Church was born through the power of the Holy Spirit, Mary was present among the apostles in prayer. Just as she accompanied the first disciples, she continues to accompany the Church today.
The memorial encourages Catholics to look to Mary as:
- a model of faith and discipleship,
- a mother of comfort and hope,
- and an example of trusting God completely.
The liturgical color for the day is usually white, symbolizing joy, purity, and the glory of Christ reflected in Mary’s life.
