Immaculate Conception
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception teaches us that “from the first moment of her conception” the Blessed Mother was “preserved immune from all stain of original sin.” God granted her this state of grace so that she could give birth to Jesus. Though officially declared doctrine by Pope Pius IX in 1854, its roots go back to Church writings from the fourth century. Many Church Fathers, including Irenaeus and Cyril of Jerusalem, contributed to the theology of Mary as the New Eve. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is location in Washington, DC. It is the largest Catholic church in North America and houses 82 Marian side chapels in addition to other religious devotionals.
“And the angel came in unto her, and said, hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.” -Luke 1:28
Catholic Apostolate Center Blog Posts on the Immaculate Conception
Pilgrimage Sites in the United States
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception — Mobile, AL
Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception — Denver, CO
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Blessed Michael McGivney Center for Renewal — Waterbury, CT
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception — Washington, DC
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception — Jacksonville, FL
Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception — Peoria, IL
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception — Fort Wayne, IN
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception — Wichita, KS
Immaculate Conception Cathedral — Lake Charles, LA
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception — Natchitoches, LA
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception — Conception, MO
Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception — Norfolk, VA