Yesterday, December 8, is listed as a "Black Letter Day" or minor commemoration on the calendar of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer. The eighth of December is a day traditionally called "The Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary." Since it is not directly based on a specific Scripture event, the BCP does not provide it with liturgical propers, and some Anglicans have been hesitant to commemorate this day because we do not accept certain papal interpretations of her conception.
Nevertheless, the day is part of the Prayer Book tradition, and it is certainly appropriate for us to remember the blessed Virgin and honor her, especially during the season of Advent. The greeting of the angel Gabriel at the Annunciation echoes in our minds. As St. Luke 1. 26-28 says, AND in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a Virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the Virgin's name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women.While Anglicans have differing views about some traditions regarding Mary, we all agree that she was "highly favoured" and "blessed among women." Her role in God's plan of salvation and the Incarnation of God the Son was important and unique. The blessed Virgin should be respected, and she should inspire us to deeper devotion.
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