Supreme Chaplain's Monthly Challenge

December, 2026

But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” (Gospel for Dec. 20, Lk 1:34)

Earlier in Luke’s Gospel, when the angel appeared to Zechariah to announce that his elderly and barren wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son, Zechariah expressed disbelief — and was struck mute as a result. Mary’s question here is not one of doubt; she accepts what the angel has revealed and wishes to further probe the mystery. We, too, sometimes wonder about particular aspects of our Catholic faith. Following Mary’s example, it is good for us to ask questions in a spirit of trust so that we might better understand what has been revealed to us.

Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:

This month, as you ponder the mystery of the Incarnation, I challenge you to place your trust entirely in God’s hands as Mary did, and pray the Angelus each day to fully submit — mind, heart and soul — to God’s holy will.

Questions for Reflection:

Do you, like Mary, trust God at his word? What fears and obstacles stand in the way of your full submission to his holy will? What questions for God arise in your mind regarding how he is asking you to serve him?

Supreme Chaplain's Monthly Challenge

Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:

Questions for Reflection:

Monthly Challenges