Yesterday, in Italy it was the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It is a a Christian solemnity celebrated in honor of all the saints of the Church, whether they are known or unknown. It celebrates the sinless lifespan and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on December 8, nine months before the feast of the Nativity of Mary, celebrated on September 8. It is one of the most important Marian feasts in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Catholic Church celebrated worldwide. By Pontifical decree, it is the patronal feast day of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Italy, Korea, Nicaragua, Paraguay, the Philippines, Spain, the United States, and Uruguay. By royal decree, it is designated as the day honoring the patroness of Portugal. It is celebrated by the Roman Catholic Church and some select Protestant Christian denominations. In Italy, December 8 is a national holiday since 1953 and it marks the start of the Christmas season in our country.
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