Fr Paul says, as we celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary today, it is the visit of Mary with Elizabeth as recorded in Luke’s Gospel (1: 39-56) we read from today.

Mary is visiting her relative Elizabeth and they are both pregnant – Mary with Jesus and Elizabeth with John the Baptist.  This celebration of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary falls, liturgically, when it happens historical.  Mary conceived Jesus in late March. St John the Baptist was born in late June and it is between these two events that pregnant Mary visits her pregnant cousin, Elizabeth.

Fr Paul says, we believe the purpose of this visit was to bring divine grace to both Elizabeth and her unborn child. Even though he was still in his mother’s womb, John became aware of the presence of his divine Saviour.  He leapt for joy as he was cleansed from original sin and filled with divine grace.  Also, Elizabeth responded and recognised the presence of Jesus.

Mary for the first time has exercised her function as mediator between God and man.  Fr Paul says, that is what we celebrate on this Feast of the Visitation.