Rejoice With me

Mary’s Birthday, August 5 ^*

Dear children, peace!

On August 5, rejoice with me. This is the day on which you commemorate my birth, the gift of life that the Eternal Father granted me from all eternity in His love. Everything in me belongs to God, and therefore all honor and all glory be given to Him.

Children, I do not wish for this date to be only a remembrance of my birth, but a day when every heart renews its hope. The Father allowed me to come into the world to prepare the way for the Savior, and since then my mission has been to lead all my children to Jesus.

As I have reminded you on other occasions, celebrate this day with joy, prayer, and conversion. Even though this is the day on which you commemorate my birth, it is I who wish to give you presents. On this day, I pour out special graces upon those who draw near to God with humility, pray with faith, and open their hearts to His love.

My children, a mother finds her greatest happiness when she sees her children walking in the light. The greatest gift that you can offer me is a holy life, a sincere confession, participation in the Eucharist, and a heart full of love.

I love you with a Mother’s love. I never abandon you. I intercede for each one of you, I wipe away many tears, I strengthen the discouraged and lead to Jesus those who trust in my protection.

On this day of my birth, gather together in prayer. Pray the holy rosary, thank the Lord for the gift of life, and receive the blessings I wish to bestow generously.

Remain in peace, hope, and love.

I bless you and always lead you to the Heart of my Son Jesus.

*Although the liturgical calendar celebrates the Feast of Our Lady’s Nativity on September 8, August 5 was affirmed as being the actual date of her birth by the Medjugorje visionaries in 1984, additionally affirming that August 5, 1984 would be her 2000th birthday. Translator’s note.