The Church honors with a special feast day and a mystery of the Rosary the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
What is the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary?
The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a reference to the biblical event of Mary visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. This event is narrated in the Gospel of Luke.
It is believed by many biblical scholars that Mary visited Elizabeth to help her during the last three months of her pregnancy.
This would make sense, as Elizabeth miraculously conceived a child at an advanced age, and would have needed extra help.
Mary's visit to Elizabeth was also a journey that wasn't easy, passing through country that was dangerous to travel.
Mary stayed with Elizabeth for the next three months, possibly even helping with the birth of St. John the Baptist.
The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a beautiful biblical event, one that highlights the charitable heart of Mary for her cousin, Elizabeth.