Gospel Note
This reading combines Luke's dramatic narrative of Mary's visit to Elizabeth and his lyrical "Magnificat." Central to both is the affirmation, on Elizabeth's lips as well as Mary's own, of the blessedness of the mother-to-be. Noteworthy, however, is the insistence that Mary's blessedness is not inherent, but derives from God's actions toward her in the Incarnation. After all, the adjective "blessed" is really a passive verb form, and thus itself points to God's gracious, saving agency.

Liturgical Color
Blue or purple

Suggested Hymns
My Soul Now …