“There was the Queen of Heaven, there in the sanctuary, standing upon a globe. She shone as the morning rising, a radiant vision, in all her perfect beauty … The Virgin held in her hands a golden ball which she seemed to offer to God, for her eyes were raised heavenward. Suddenly, her hands were resplendent with rings set with precious stones that glittered and flashed in a brilliant cascade of light … So bright was the flood of glory cast upon the globe below …"
“In his book about Saint Catherine Labouré, Vincentian Father Joseph Dirvin recounts this miraculous vision in 1830 in beautiful detail. Appearing to a young Daughter of Charity in the humble motherhouse chapel in Paris, Our Lady gave to humanity a gift that would change history. Today, millions around the world treasure the “Miraculous Medal” that Mary revealed to Catherine so that all people might receive a limitless share of divine graces and favors through Our Lady’s intercession.
“It is a story represented by statues and pictures at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, where we plan to host our annual May Procession on Sunday, May 1, beginning at 1:00 p.m., CT.
“You are invited to join us in person for this inspiring event here in Perryville, Missouri. As we process along the Rosary Walk, we will recite the Rosary and sing hymns as we approach our century-old grotto. There, we’ll present Mary with the thousands of silk rose petals returned by members like you.
“We hope you can be part of our May Procession in person here in Perryville, Missouri. If not, please join us in prayer, in spirit, and/or by watching our livestream coverage on the AMM Facebook page.
On that same day, another procession will be held in Los Angeles, California, at Saint Vincent De Paul Parish, if that is more accessible for you. Given the uncertainty with the pandemic, specific details as to the Mass and the procession time will be decided later. These details will be shared once the plan is set by the parish and will be published on the parish website www.stvincentla.net and Facebook.
Most importantly, please send your intentions to AMM. We will join in prayer, imploring Our Lady to place every praise and petition before the throne of her Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ. These same needs will be remembered throughout the month of May.
If you are able to send an offering, know that all gifts are deeply appreciated. They enable AMM to continue its ministry to draw the world closer to God through devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
You may also wish to request that we burn a Votive Light as another symbol of your prayerful presence at the National Shrine during, and beyond, the May Procession.
Remember, your prayers can be a sign of hope for souls struggling against doubt. At the same time, know that the Vincentian priests and brothers and fellow AMM members are praying for YOU and your needs.
Thank you once more for your support as we carry on the mission entrusted to Saint Catherine Labouré nearly two centuries ago. May God shower you and those you love with countless divine graces and favors through the intercession of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.
Sincerely in Jesus and Mary,
Fr. Kevin McCracken, C.M.
Spiritual Director