Christian · 31 December 2026
New Year · Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
नव वर्ष · मरियम, ईश्वर की माता का महापर्व
The first day of the year, honouring Mary as Mother of God, with Watch Night services on New Year’s Eve.
Why it is celebrated
On 1 January Catholics celebrate Mary as Mother of God and pray for world peace (World Day of Peace). Many churches hold a Watch Night service on 31 December to thank God for the past year.
The story behind it
The Gospel of the day tells how the shepherds found Mary, Joseph and the baby, and “Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.” Starting the year with her is a reminder to begin with gratitude and calm reflection.
How to celebrate
- Attend the Watch Night service or New Year Mass
- Thank God for the year gone and ask blessings for the new one
- Make a resolution to help others
- Pray for peace in the world
More from this calendar
ChristmasEasterGood FridayMaundy ThursdayPalm SundayAsh WednesdayAscension of the LordPentecostHoly Trinity SundayCorpus ChristiDivine Mercy SundayFirst Sunday of AdventEpiphanySt Thomas the ApostleAssumption of MaryNativity of Mary · Velankanni and Monti FestSt Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa)St Francis XavierAll Saints’ DayAll Souls’ DaySt JosephAnnunciation of the LordImmaculate Conception
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