“The Birth of the Virgin Mary” by Esteban Murillo (Louvre, Paris)
Father of mercy,
give your people help and strength from heaven.
The birth of the Virgin Mary’s Son
was the dawn of our salvation.
May this celebration of her birthday
bring us closer to lasting peace.
Grant this though our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
— Collect for the Feast of the Birth of Mary