What is the Magnificat?
Mary visits Elizabeth who is about 6 months pregnant and is filled with the Holy Spirit and reports that, the moment she heard Mary’s voice, her unborn baby (John) leaped in her womb. Elizabeth then goes on to bless Mary. Mary responds to Elizabeth’s blessing with what is now commonly called The Magnificat.
The Magnificat
Luke’s Gospel (1:46-55)
My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior;
Because he has regarded the lowliness of his handmaid;
For behold, henceforth all generations shall call me blessed;
Because he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name;
And his mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm,
He has scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.
He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and has exalted the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has given help to Israel, his servant, mindful of his mercy
Even as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity forever.
