The feast we celebrate today does not have its origin in the Gospel but in ancient tradition. The Church, however, does not accept the fictitious narrative that supposes Our Lady to have lived in the Temple under a vow of virginity from the time she was a young girl. But the essential basis of today's feast is firm - the personal oblation that our Blessed Mother made to God, our Lord, during her early youth.

She was moved by the Holy Spirit to consecrate her life to God who filled her with grace from the first moment of her conception. Mary's complete dedication was efficacious and continued to grow as her life went on. Her example moves us not to withhold anything in our life of dedication to the Lord.

Let us ask Our Lady's help today that our life be also a dedication to the state God has placed us, in accordance with our specific vocation received from the Lord. Let us talk with Our Lady and tell her fully trusting: