Feast of Mater Admirabilis reflection 2025

By Peggy Gorman, Halifax Associate

In 1844, a young woman, Pauline Perdrau, a postulant of the Society of the Sacred Heart, painted a fresco of Mary. First called the Madonna of the Lily, the painting had also taken on the name Mater Admirabilis from the litany of Our Lady. Pope Pius IX blessed it under that title on October 20, 1846. This then became the official name and feast day. The painting is lovingly referred to by generations as Mater. Madeleine Sophie Barat, foundress of the Society of the Sacred Heart, chose Mater as the patron saint of the Sacred Heart Schools and each October Mater’s feast day is celebrated around the world.

Mater Admirabilis,
holy is your name
Mother to many through the ages.
your presence in art a symbol of youth,
gentleness,
abiding love.
modeling contemplation
while holding tools of work
a lily at your side
a basket of yarn at your feet.
A welcoming presence,
inviting sacred moments of sharing,
secrets entrusted to your care.
Celebrating times of great joy and newness of life
as graduates leave and young ones enter.
Creating a relationship that lasts a lifetime.
Mater,
Mother,
Holy is your name.