Immaculate Conception

We have been preparing for today's Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception here at the Oxford Oratory with the usual Novena in church - I have managed to attend most days, but not, alas, all - and had Solemn Vespers and Benediction yesterday evening. This evening there will be a Solemn Mass. Not only is the Oratory under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady but also the Archdiocese of Birmingham, so it has a double significance for us.

There is a useful account of the historical development of this dogma here.

The Immaculate Conception
by José Claudio Antolinez (1635-1675)

Image: Catholicism Pure and Simple blog

There is another version of this painting by Antolinez at The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, and is quite breath-taking to see.

Deep night hath come down on this rough-spoken world

And the banners of darkness are boldly unfurled;

And the tempest-tossed Church - all her eyes are on thee,

They look to thy shining, Sweet Star of the Sea.

Fr Faber