Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has released a message to the faithful in anticipation of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated during Advent by the Catholic Church. In his letter, Cardinal Tobin reflected on the meaning of this dogma and its significance for believers.

He explained that Catholics hold that from the moment of her conception, Mary was blessed by God with redeeming grace. “Although she was a descendant of Adam and Eve, and therefore part of our sinful human race, God's mercy kept her away from the sinful tendencies that affect all human beings and from all personal sin,” wrote Cardinal Tobin.

The cardinal emphasized that Mary's freedom from sin was not due to her own merit but because she was chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ. He noted: “Mary was the first person to be redeemed by Christ. This singular act of mercy took place before she accepted the vocation God had planned for her.”

He further stated: “It is tempting to say that Mary had an unfair advantage over us. She was born without sin, while you and I only have our weakened human nature. But Mary's life shows that she struggled mightily to accept situations she could not understand.”

Citing Pope Leo XIV’s homily for the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, Cardinal Tobin included: “Mary's path follows that of Jesus, which leads us to encounter all human beings, especially the poor, wounded and sinners. Therefore, authentic Marian spirituality makes present in the Church God's tenderness and maternity.” He added that Mary believed wholeheartedly in God’s justice and mercy leading ultimately to eternal joy.

Cardinal Tobin described Mary as “the supreme example of redeemed humanity” who serves as a source of comfort and encouragement for those seeking holiness. He wrote: “The Immaculate Conception is truly an Advent feast. It reminds us that Mary, our mother, is willing to help us prepare for her Son’s coming.”

He also referenced passages from the Catechism of the Catholic Church which affirm that Mary was preserved immune from original sin by special grace from God (vatican.va/archive/catechism).

Pope Leo XIV’s message highlighted how Marian spirituality serves the Gospel by encouraging humility and compassion toward others (vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/es/homilies/2025). The pope stated: “Every time we look at Mary we come back to believe in how revolutionary tenderness and affection are… Looking at her we discover that humility and tenderness are not virtues only for the weak but also for those who do not need to mistreat others in order to feel important.”

Cardinal Tobin concluded his message with a prayer asking Mary Immaculate to intercede so believers may live up to their baptismal calling.