Greetings from the Association of the Miraculous Medal, our Lady's National Shrine in Perryville, Missouri, where thousands of prayer intentions from around the country are received every month.

We read every one of these requests and prepare them to be placed at Mary's Altar where she lifts them up to her Son Jesus for his loving, healing mercy and grace.

The process of reading these emails and letters can be so heartwarming. We see beautiful prayers and thanksgiving and praise. We also receive many petitions from members in the midst of deep and painful crises. This is always so heartbreaking. As I write this letter, the prevailing news headlines are overwhelming and profoundly sorrowful.

Our country, its leaders, and we, the citizens, are in great need of God's grace. We know from the message and mission of Saint Catherine Labouré, who received the Miraculous Medal from the Mother of God in France in the year 1830, that Mary promises to obtain God's grace for all who ask. The many letters of praise that we receive here at the Shrine attest to this maternal intercession of our Blessed Mother.

In times like these, one of Mary's many honored titles seems especially relevant - Our Lady of Sorrows - because she knew and experienced sorrow as deeply and as painfully as anyone can. She witnessed the passion and crucifixion of her only Son, unable to help him...except by her prayers.

This is how our Lady helps us today, and she is waiting to help you now!

As a sign of your spiritual presence at our Lady's Shrine, I also invite you to burn a Votive Light for your intentions. It will be a symbol of your desire to be filled with the joy she wants to bring us from her Son.

Thank you for your loving support. Through it, our Lady's Association is increasing devotion to Mary and bringing hearts to the hopeful grace of our Lord Jesus. May God bless you and may our Blessed Mother keep you in her tender, maternal care.

Sincerely yours in Our Lady of Sorrows,

Fr. Kevin McCracken, C.M.
Spiritual Director