Episode 1709: O Adonai & Feast of the Expectation of the Blessed Virgin

The Feast of the Expectation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a celebration in the Roman Catholic Church that commemorates the joyful anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ and the purity of Mary from the moment of her conception. It is not to be confused with the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, which specifically celebrates the belief that Mary was conceived without original sin.

The Feast of the Expectation is traditionally observed on December 18th, and it is associated with the anticipation of the birth of Jesus on Christmas. It is a time for the faithful to reflect on the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the plan of salvation and to honor her as the Mother of God.

In some places and communities, this feast is also known as the "Our Lady of the O" or "Our Lady of the Expectation." The title "Our Lady of the O" is derived from the "O Antiphons," which are a series of seven liturgical antiphons used in the week leading up to Christmas Eve. Each antiphon addresses Christ using a different Old Testament title, and they are traditionally chanted or recited during the Magnificat at Vespers.

The Feast of the Expectation is a time for prayer, reflection, and devotion to Mary as the one who awaited the birth of the Savior with faith, hope, and love. It underscores the importance of Mary in the Advent season and the joyous expectation of the coming of Christ.