September 12 is the memorial of the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary, honoring the name given to the mother of Jesus. The feast was extended to the whole Church by Pope Innocent XI in 1683, in thanksgiving after the victory at Vienna on this date, and was restored to the General Roman Calendar by Pope John Paul II in 2002.
The Church honors Mary's name because to speak it is to remember her trust: she heard God's call and answered yes without seeing the whole road ahead. For those who grieve, her name has long been a gentle refuge — a mother who stood at the cross and understands the sorrow of losing a child.
Holy Mary, whose name is our comfort, stay near all who mourn and gather our loved ones close to your Son. Amen.