The Church observes the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Friday, September 8. On that day, we will begin an octave of prayer at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. You are invited to entrust your intentions to the Mother of God, for Our Lady desires that all souls unite with her Son Jesus. You may also request to burn a Votive Light in Our Lady’s honor.

Be sure to read Fr. Kevin’s letter to learn more about the commemorative birthday candle members are helping to create. “O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”

Whether your family is taking a vacation or “staycation” this summer, now is a good time to ask Our Lady to be with you in a special way. Here’s a special Prayer for Travelers. 

Please share your prayer intentions for remembrance in our annual Assumption Novena of Masses beginning Sunday, August 6. Throughout the nine days, we will call to mind Our Lady’s Assumption into heaven, declared as official dogma of the Church in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. This year’s August 15 feast day readings highlight Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant, the queen who takes her place at God’s right hand, and one who is blessed because she hears the word of God and observes it. 

Ask heaven’s favored daughter to lift up your prayers into God’s presence during the Solemnity observance. You may also request a Votive Light to burn as a sign of your prayerful presence for this joyous feast. 

“When I was my father’s child … He taught me and said to me: ‘Let your heart hold fast my words … On the way of wisdom I direct you, I lead you on straight paths.’” (Proverbs 4: 3-4,11) 

Celebrate the loving fathers and father figures in your life. Whether they are living or deceased, you can offer the loving gift of prayer by sending the names of your loved ones for remembrance. 

Beginning Saturday, June 10, the Association will celebrate its June Novena of Masses to pray for members and their intentions.

The novena spans three important Church feasts: the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (June 11), the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (June 16), and the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (June 17). It concludes on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18.

You are invited to entrust your needs and those of your loved ones to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal during this very special observance. Your petitions will be placed near Mary’s Altar here at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and remembered in the daily Mass and prayers throughout the nine days. You may also burn a Votive Light as a sign of your spiritual presence.

Through Mary’s intercession, may you draw ever closer to the Sacred Heart of her Son.