This year on the 25th of June, we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The Immaculate Heart of Mary signifies the purity and love our Blessed Virgin Mary has for God. It also expresses her maternal love for Jesus Christ, her Son, and her love and compassion for all mankind.
The Immaculate Heart is traditionally portrayed with her heart, a flame, a sword, and flowers, which all have a biblical reference.
The flame represents the Holy Spirit and the many times this is depicted in the Bible, one of the most significant being the story of Pentecost.
“They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” Acts 2:3-4.
The sword refers to the Purification of Mary in the temple.
“This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” Luke 2:34-35.
The flowers, being Lilies and Roses, represent the Annunciation where angel Gabriel proclaims to Mary that she will birth the Son of God. They represent her purity and complete dedication to God, and are of course, connected to the Rosary.
“I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. like a Lily among thorns is my darling among the young women.” Song of Songs 2:1-2.
The Immaculate Heart overall shows us the way the Bible portrays our Mother Mary – pure, compassionate, loving and devoted.