President Donald Trump honored the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on Dec. 8, which appears to be the first time an American president has formally recognized the Catholic holy day.
The presidential statement recognized the role Mary played in the salvation of humanity and the importance she has in American history. The statement does, however, contain one theological error about the Incarnation. It says God became man when Christ was born, although Catholic doctrine recognizes God becoming man at the Incarnation: when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit in Mary’s womb.
“Today, I recognize every American celebrating Dec. 8 as a holy day honoring the faith, humility, and love of Mary, mother of Jesus and one of the greatest figures in the Bible,” the statement said. Trump, who is not Catholic and describes himself as a nondenominational Christian, has forged strong bonds with a broad range of Christians and referenced religious holidays and symbols in ways that resonate with supporters.
CNA could not find similar proclamations on the Immaculate Conception from other presidents, including none from the only two Catholic presidents: John F. Kennedy and Joe Biden. Other presidents have spoken about Mary and the Immaculate Conception, sometimes in
