The President of the United States, Donald Trump, published an official message on the occasion of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, in which he publicly recognized the Virgin Mary as a decisive figure in the Christian faith and emphasized her spiritual and historical relevance in national life. The leader recalled that millions of Americans celebrate this day as a sacred feast that exalts the humility, faith, and love of the Mother of God.
“Hail, full of grace”: the announcement that changed human history
The president explained that the feast of the Immaculate celebrates the Catholic conviction that Mary was preserved from original sin from the first instant of her existence. He recalled the biblical moment when the angel Gabriel appeared before the young woman of Nazareth with a message that would mark history:
“Rejoice, full of grace! The Lord is with you… You will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.”
He highlighted that Mary responded with one of the most decisive acts of humanity:
“Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Be it done to me according to your word.”
That free acceptance—he pointed out—changed the course of the world. Nine months later, Jesus Christ would be born, who would offer his life on the cross for universal salvation.
Mary in the origins of the United States
The message recalled that, from the first years of the nation, Mary has had a particular role in American religious history. In 1792, the country’s first bishop, John Carroll, consecrated the young nation to the Mother of Christ.
Years later, in the Battle of New Orleans, Catholics attributed General Andrew Jackson’s unexpected victory over British forces to the intercession of the Virgin. Since then, every January 8, a Mass of thanksgiving is celebrated in New Orleans to commemorate that event.
The president also emphasized the Marian devotion of great American figures, such as Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini and the Venerable Fulton Sheen, who, with deep religiosity, decisively influenced the spiritual landscape of the country.
Cultural footprint: basilicas, universities, and hymns
The message recalled that the imposing National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, in Washington D.C., is the largest church in North America dedicated to the Virgin. In addition, nearly fifty American universities and colleges bear her name, a sign of the deep Marian roots in the country’s culture.
He also highlighted the popularity of the hymn “Ave Maria”, which has been, for generations, a call to prayer and consolation for millions of citizens.
A few days before the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the president also recalled the great Marian devotion shared with Mexico, where the famous basilica dedicated to the Patroness of the Americas is located.
Mary, model of peace in the face of the world’s conflicts
The message recalled that, during the time of the First World War, Pope Benedict XV dedicated a monumental statue of Mary Queen of Peace, represented with the Child Jesus and an olive branch, to encourage the faithful to pray for the end of the conflict. Months later, the confrontation came to an end.
Today—affirmed the president—the world turns again to Mary seeking inspiration to end wars and achieve lasting peace, especially in Europe and in the regions most afflicted by violence.
The message concluded by quoting the prayer of the Ave Maria.