May 24, 2017

β›ͺ The Festival of Mary, Help of Christians

β›ͺ The Festival of Mary: May 24


Origins and Significance

The Festival of Mary, Help of Christians, is a feast day celebrated in honor of the Virgin Mary, under the title "Help of Christians." This title reflects the belief that Mary, as the mother of Jesus, has a special role in assisting and protecting the faithful. The origins of this feast can be traced back to the early 16th century, but it gained significant prominence in the 19th century due to the influence of Saint John Bosco.

Historical Background

The title "Help of Christians" was officially recognized by Pope Pius V in 1571 after the Battle of Lepanto, where a coalition of Christian forces won a decisive victory against the Ottoman Empire. This victory was attributed to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, and the pope instituted the feast of Our Lady of Victory, later known as Our Lady of the Rosary, on October 7.

However, it was Pope Pius VII who established the feast of Mary, Help of Christians, on May 24, 1815, after his release from captivity under Napoleon. The pope had a strong devotion to Mary and credited her intercession for his safe return to Rome.

Spread of the Devotion

The devotion to Mary, Help of Christians, spread widely due to the efforts of Saint John Bosco, an Italian priest and educator who founded the Salesian Society. He built the Basilica of Mary, Help of Christians, in Turin, Italy, and dedicated the Salesian missions to her. The Salesians promoted the feast day and devotion to Mary under this title, contributing significantly to its spread worldwide.

Celebrations and Traditions

The Festival of Mary, Help of Christians, is celebrated with various traditions and customs, particularly in regions with a strong Salesian presence. Some common practices include:

  • Mass and Processions: Special Masses are held in churches dedicated to Mary, Help of Christians. Processions featuring a statue of Mary are also common, where the faithful carry the statue through the streets, praying and singing hymns in her honor.
  • Novena: A nine-day period of prayer, or novena, leading up to the feast day is often observed. This novena includes special prayers and reflections on Mary's role as a helper and protector.
  • Marian Devotions: Devotional activities such as the Rosary, litanies, and other prayers focused on Mary's intercession are emphasized.
  • Cultural Events: In some places, the feast is marked by cultural events, fairs, and community gatherings, celebrating the local traditions and honoring Mary, Help of Christians.

Prayers to Mary, Help of Christians

Prayer for Protection
O Mary, Help of Christians,
Mother of mercy and compassion,
we turn to you in our time of need.
Protect us from all harm and guide us through life's challenges.
Intercede for us before your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
and obtain for us the grace and strength to follow Him faithfully.
Amen.

Prayer for Assistance
Mary, Help of Christians,
you are our refuge and our hope.
In our difficulties, we come to you with confidence.
Assist us with your maternal care and obtain for us
the favors we seek from your Son.
Help us to grow in faith, hope, and love,
and lead us to eternal life.
Amen.

Prayer for the Church
O Mary, Help of Christians,
protect the Holy Church and all her members.
Keep us faithful to the teachings of your Son, Jesus Christ,
and guide us in our mission to spread the Gospel.
Strengthen our leaders, comfort the suffering,
and bring unity and peace to all.
Through your intercession, may we build a world
that reflects God's love and mercy.
Amen.

The Festival of Mary, Help of Christians, remains a significant celebration for many Catholics worldwide, fostering devotion to the Virgin Mary and highlighting her role as a protector and intercessor for the faithful.

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