Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

The Immaculate Conception ("Satan's Mighty Foe") by Domenico Piola - 1683

 From an explanation of the painting above:

"At the instant of her conception within the womb of Saint Anne, Mary's soul is shown being crowned by her Father and filled with grace by her Spouse, the Holy Spirit. Mary tramples on the head of the Evil Beast, assisted by an angel carrying her Son's Cross of Redemption. Satan sits, very much confused by the soul of  Mary (the New Eve) over which he has no power because of the absence of Original Sin; and behind Satan is the "Old Eve" receiving the "Apple of Temptation" from the Evil Beast, which has no power over Mary. Jesus' (the New Adam) Crucifixion and Mary's role as Auxiliatrix was a triumph over Satan, Sin and Death, necessary to correct the Sin of both Adam and Eve." 

Praying in particular for my Advent Prayer Buddy today.

Happy feast of the Immaculate Conception!