The Feast of the Holy Name of Mary is celebrated in the Church on September 12th, and it is a day set aside to honor the sanctity and power of the name of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This feast originated in Spain in the 16th century and was extended to the universal Church in 1683 by Pope Innocent XI, in thanksgiving for the victory of Christian forces over the Ottoman Turks at the Battle of Vienna—a moment when Europe was spared from a potential Islamic conquest.
The name “Mary” is believed to be of Hebrew origin, derived from “Miryam,” which some scholars suggest could mean “beloved” or “star of the sea.” In the spiritual tradition of the Church, the name of Mary carries great power and devotion. Saints, such as St. Bernard of Clairvaux, have written extensively on the efficacy of invoking Mary’s name, particularly in times of temptation, trial, and sorrow. St. Bernard famously said, “O most sweet name! O Mary, what must thou thyself be, since thy name alone is thus amiable and gracious!”
Spiritual Meaning and Devotion
The devotion to the Holy Name of Mary highlights her unique role in salvation history as the Mother of God and our powerful intercessor. Just as the name of Jesus is venerated, the name of Mary is also invoked with love and reverence by the faithful, recognizing that God has bestowed upon her the fullness of grace.
According to tradition, invoking her name brings protection, comfort, and strength, especially in spiritual battles. St. Alphonsus Liguori, in his writings, emphasized how those who devoutly pronounce Mary’s name are assured of graces. He wrote that “the devils fear the Queen of heaven to such a degree, that at the sound of her name they flee from him who pronounces it as from a burning fire.”
Historical Significance of the Feast
The Feast of the Holy Name of Mary was officially placed on the Church calendar after the great victory at the Battle of Vienna in 1683, when King Jan Sobieski of Poland, after invoking the name of Mary, led a Catholic army to defeat the Ottoman Turks, halting their advance into Europe. This event was seen as miraculous, a divine intervention credited to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin.
Practical Devotion
Faithful Catholics often turn to the Litany of the Holy Name of Mary and other prayers honoring her name, seeking her intercession in their daily lives. The feast encourages believers to reflect on the grace-filled life of Mary and the love that she bears for all her children, reminding them that by calling upon her name, they are never abandoned.
Thus, the veneration of the Holy Name of Mary invites Christians to meditate on her purity, humility, and maternal care, constantly drawing them closer to Christ through her.