This statue of Our Lady stands in the chapel of the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C.
Photo: Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.

“Let the children of the Catholic Church fly with utter confidence to this most sweet Mother of mercy and grace in all dangers, difficulties, needs, doubts and fears. Under her guidance, under her patronage, under her kindness and protection, nothing is to be feared; nothing is hopeless. Because, while bearing toward us a truly motherly affection and having in her care the work of our salvation, she is solicitous about the whole human race.” — Pope Blessed Pius IX.

On December 8th 1854, eight years and four months after the American bishops had chosen Mary Immaculate as the Patroness of the United States, Pope Blessed Pius IX solemnly declared the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary to be an article of faith.

Photo & Description: Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.