It was one year ago this week that a “new normal” came out of nowhere.

One by one, businesses shut down across and beyond the United States. Schools and churches closed. Weddings and special events were abruptly cancelled – including the Association’s traditional May Procession.

What a difference a year makes! We are praying that the annual May Procession can take place live and in-person at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Sunday, May 2, at 1:00 p.m., C.T.

It may be as late as the last week in April before we know for sure if the procession can be safely conducted with the public. With that said, I wish to extend to you a personal invitation to join us for this special event here in Perryville, Missouri. In years past, between 500-800 pilgrims participated, with many thousands more spiritually present in prayer. This year, I plan to lead the procession through the gently sloping Rosary Walk to our century-old grotto. There, we’ll present Mary with floral bouquets and a wreath created from thousands of red roses returned by members, like you.

There is also a May Procession held in Los Angeles, California, on the same day as our procession. At this time, we are not able to confirm that the Los Angeles procession will take place.

Your presence – in person, by prayer, or through digital media -- is also a sign of hope for others who may be struggling against doubt, anxiety, bitterness, and other spiritual ills.

Your generous offering to the Association of the Miraculous Medal is important and assists us in our work. Your gift will help us carry on the mission given to Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris by our Blessed Mother during her appearance in November 1830.

In the event we cannot accommodate hundreds of pilgrims, I will lead a small procession of Association staff members and guests here in Perryville. We will live- stream the event on our Facebook page, so please mark your calendar and take part in this decades-long tradition – in spirit, at least, and, hopefully, in person, too!

The easiest way to participate in spirit is to return your intentions to AMM before April 12. The collective prayer of Association members across and beyond the United States is powerful, indeed. Our Lord assures us he is present where even two or three are gathered in his name (Matthew 18:20).

We all need prayer and encouragement in our lives; we can be confident that many graces and favors will be poured out on this day as Mary intercedes for our needs.

Thanks to your financial support, the ministry of AMM continues to grow.

Add any petitions by clicking here. We will carry your petition in the procession and present your intentions at the foot of our Blessed Mother’s statue. Your petition will then be returned to the Shrine Altar where your intentions will be remembered in the daily Mass and prayers throughout the month of May. Requesting a Votive Light is another tangible sign of your appeal for Mary’s intercession – or simply an expression of your deep gratitude for blessings received.

Thank you for your ongoing support for Mary’s mission. May God bless you, and may Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal obtain for you God’s infinite grace and mercy.

Sincerely in Jesus and Mary,

Fr. Kevin McCracken, C.M.
Spiritual Director