Our Lady of Miracles
Our Lady of Miracles constitutes one of Christianity’s most ancient and enduring set of Marian devotions. The title "Our Lady of Miracles" emphasizes the belief in Mary's intercessory power and the miraculous events attributed to her intervention. With roots stretching back to early Byzantine-era Constantinople, the Virgin of Miracles arose as protector and wonder worker, a fame spreading globally over centuries thanks to stunning stories of intercession.
The first sparks of devotion came with Saint Mary of the Mongols church in 5th century Constantinople, later renamed Theotokos Panachrantos – the All-Holy Mother of God. By the 7th century its relic treasury boasted the Virgin’s belt, part of her robe, and a quadrant featuring her miraculously-imprinted image. As tales of healing miracles abounded, the church became one of the city’s most important, with Muscovite rulers building their own replica Panachrantos in Russia filled with relics and wonderworking icons.
By the 15th century, Moscow boasted over 270 icon variations on the Theotokos of Miracles theme housed in the city’s numerous churches. Through Eastern Orthodox faith, these images linking Mary and miraculous cure continue today.
One of the most renowned devotions to Our Lady of Miracles is associated with the town of Caacupé in Paraguay. This devotion dates back to the early 17th century. According to tradition, a Guaraní convert named José was fleeing from hostile indigenous tribes. In his desperate situation, he prayed fervently to the Virgin Mary for protection. Guided by his faith, he hid behind a large tree trunk, which miraculously concealed him from his pursuers. After his escape, José carved a statue of the Virgin Mary from the trunk of the tree that had sheltered him as an act of gratitude.
José's statue of the Virgin Mary eventually found its home in the small village of Caacupé. Over time, the "Our Lady of Miracles" statue became associated with numerous miracles and answered prayers, solidifying the Virgin Mary's role as a powerful intercessor for the faithful.
Two other notable instances of Marian devotion under the title of Our Lady of Miracles around the world:
are in Italy.
In Alcamo, Sicily, the devotion to Our Lady of Miracles dates back to the 16th century. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young woman named Rosalia Gallo during a time of severe drought. Mary instructed Rosalia to tell the townspeople to dig at a specific location. When they did, a spring of fresh water miraculously appeared, ending the drought. In gratitude, the people of Alcamo built a sanctuary and began an annual celebration on June 21 to honor Our Lady of Miracles.
Another significant devotion is found in Saronno, near Milan. In the 15th century, a man named Pietro Morandi was gravely ill and prayed to the Virgin Mary for healing. After recovering, he attributed his miraculous cure to Mary's intercession and commissioned a statue of Our Lady of Miracles. The devotion grew, and a sanctuary was built in her honor. The feast day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May.