Today , October 7th, the Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. This feast commemorates the victory of the Battle of Lepanto where European Christian forces defeated the Ottoman Empire, which was threatening to overwhelm Europe, in a decisive naval battle in 1571. In preparation for the battle, Pope Pius V had ordered the churches of Rome opened for prayer day and night, encouraging the faithful to petition the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary through the recitation of the Rosary. Next Thursday, October 13 is the 105th anniversary of Mary's final appearance to the children at Fatima and the Miracle of the Sun. At Fatima Mary identified herself as "Our Lady of the Rosary" and asked that Her Rosary be said daily in order to help bring peace to the world. At Fatima She also offered Her Immaculate Heart as a Refuge from all the attacks, present and future, of Her great enemy, Satan. Mary's Heart is always the Refuge for Her children, where we are always safe from the enemy and where we are ALWAYS sure of finding Jesus. This past Wednesday, October 5 was the Feast of St. Faustina of the Divine Mercy, to whom Jesus said, "The world will not find peace until it turns with trust to My Mercy." Each of us experiences battles as we go through life; so many of which are fought at the level of the heart. Heaven always stands ready to help us if we simply turn to God with humble prayer, beseeching Him and asking for the intercession of our Blessed Mother. Only with Their help can we achieve victory over Satan and darkness. "By the Sign of Your Holy Cross, from all our enemies deliver us, O Lord our God. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen." "Mary, Queen of Peace, banish all fear from the hearts of your children." "Jesus, we trust in You." Pray for the Restoration and Renewal of all creation to the Father's original intent. This is the Victory. October 7, 2022 Mission of Divine Mercy |