Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal: A Gift of Grace
Catholic Gemz Newsletter 19
Opening Prayer
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Scripture
"And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars."
— Revelation 12:1
Reflection
The image of Our Lady in the Book of Revelation beautifully captures her majesty and intercessory role in heaven. As Catholics, we believe that Mary’s appearances on earth reflect her maternal care for her children and her desire to lead us closer to her Son, Jesus. Today, on the Feast of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, we honour her under a title that invites us to trust in her promises and seek her intercession with renewed confidence.
The Story of the Miraculous Medal
The story of the Miraculous Medal begins in 1830 in Paris, France, when the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to a young novice, Sister Catherine Labouré, of the Daughters of Charity. On July 18, Catherine was awakened by an angelic child who led her to the convent’s chapel. There, she encountered the Virgin Mary, seated on a chair, who spoke to her with great tenderness. Mary confided that God had a special mission for Catherine.
Four months later, on November 27, 1830, Our Lady appeared again, this time standing on a globe with rays of light streaming from her hands. Surrounding her was an oval frame with the words:
"O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."
Mary instructed Catherine to have a medal struck with this image. On the reverse side, she revealed a design featuring a large "M" intertwined with a cross and two hearts—one crowned with thorns and the other pierced by a sword. Mary promised abundant graces to those who wear the medal with faith.
Why We Should Honour Our Lady Under This Title
Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal reminds us of Mary’s unique role as the Mediatrix of Grace. Her apparition emphasises her Immaculate Conception, a dogma of the Church proclaiming her preservation from original sin. By honouring her under this title, we affirm our belief in her purity and her closeness to God. Mary’s message calls us to trust in her intercession, knowing that she leads us to the heart of Christ.
The Promises of the Miraculous Medal
Mary made extraordinary promises associated with the Miraculous Medal, including:
Abundant Graces: Devotees who wear the medal with confidence will receive Mary’s graces, especially in their spiritual lives.
Conversion of Sinners: The medal has been a source of miraculous conversions, even among those far from the faith.
Protection in Times of Need: Wearers testify to miraculous interventions, whether in physical healing, safety from harm, or resolution of personal struggles.
Known Miracles
The Miraculous Medal has been associated with countless miracles. Here are just a few remarkable examples:
The Conversion of Alphonse Ratisbonne (1842)
A staunch atheist and skeptic of Christianity, Alphonse Ratisbonne was given a Miraculous Medal as part of a challenge by a devout Catholic. While wearing the medal, he experienced a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary in a church in Rome. The encounter led to his immediate conversion to Catholicism and eventual ordination as a priest.Healing of Sister Justine Bisqueyburu
Sister Justine, another Daughter of Charity, was gravely ill and at the point of death. She wore the Miraculous Medal, praying fervently to Mary for healing. Against all odds, she recovered completely, attributing her miraculous recovery to Mary’s intercession.Saved During World War II Bombings
Numerous accounts from World War II describe soldiers and civilians wearing the Miraculous Medal being spared during bombings. A priest in Nagasaki, Japan, reported that his entire parish, devoted to the Miraculous Medal, survived the atomic bombing unharmed while the surrounding area was destroyed.Healing of Little John Traynor
John Traynor, a soldier injured during World War I, suffered from paralysis and severe medical conditions. During a pilgrimage to Lourdes, wearing the Miraculous Medal, he experienced a complete and sudden healing, leaving doctors baffled. He became an ardent promoter of devotion to Mary.
Call to Action
On this Feast of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, let us recommit ourselves to her care:
Wear the Medal: Wear the Miraculous Medal daily, as a sign of your trust in Mary’s intercession.
Share the Medal: Give the medal to friends or family who may need spiritual encouragement.
Shop Sacred Heart of Jesus Apparel and Wall Art at Catholic Gemz: email catholicgemz@gmail.com
In Christ
Catholic Gemz Team
