Visionary: St. Silvester Guzzolini (1177-1267), founder of the so-called Blue Benedictines or Silvestrines Title: Mother of the Eucharist
The most famous Marian prodigy in his life took place when, of a night, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him in a dream and said, “Silvester, dost thou desire to receive the Body of my Son?” With trepidation he answered, “My heart is ready, O Lady; let it be done unto me according to thy word.” What I find most extraordinary is that Saint Silvester, being a monk already steeped in the Word of God through the familiar repetition of it in the Sacred Liturgy, answered Our Blessed Lady in two phrases already held and pondered within her Immaculate Heart. The first phrase, taken from Psalm 107:2 —Paratum cor meum Deus paratum cor meum— “My heart is ready, O God, my heart is ready” is the perfect act of preparation for Holy Communion. The second phrase is Our Blessed Lady’s own acquiescence to the mystery of the Incarnation as recorded in Luke 1:30 —Fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum— “Be it done to me according to thy word”. Receiving her very own words from the lips of her servant Silvester, the Mother of God gave him Holy Communion. Claudio Ridolfi painted the episode in 1632.
Source: Vultus Christ - http://vultus.stblogs.org/index.php/2013/11/ad-aeterna-tabernacula-festina/
Title: Madonna della Rocca (Our Lady of the Fortress)
On the spot where the sanctuary now stands once stood a fortress (hence the name). A papal bull of 1245 shows that even before the demolition of the fortress, there was a church dedicated to the Virgin. The tradition says that when the church was built, the Madonnaon appeared a rock not far away. On that same stone lush oak tree has long been rooted. Legend has it that it is originally from the Holy Land.
Bl. Adam was a Cistercian monk and priest in the abbey of Loccum (in what is modern-day Hanover, Germany). He is emembered for his strong devotion to the Mother of God, he is said to have received visions of her and two have been healed through her intercession on two separate occasions.
Visionaries: Two Young Shepherdesses Title: Our Lady of Bath
The Virgin appeared three times to two shepherdesses and asked them to build a place of worship. A chapel was first built in the late sixteenth century, later replaced by the current church in the eighteenth century.
Source: Dictionary of the Apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Laurentin p. 155; Gamba 1999, 277.
Visionary: Henry, the future abbot of the Cistercian monastery of Heisterbach
An abbot named Henry was marked by the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Henry, the future abbot of the Cistercian monastery of Heisterbach in Germany, was born in 1180 and died in the odor of sanctity in 1242. Of noble origin, he led a worldly life in his youth and studied in Paris. One day the Virgin appeared to him without speaking but with a deep symbolism, pointed to what would be his life's work. Deeply changed by this occurence, Henry left his career, social life and his wealth to walk the spiritual path and learn about the richness of inner life. In 1208 he became abbot. From this time often had mystical visions, but did not prevent him from continuing his task with energetic fervor. Abbot Henry promoted academics and, behind his leadership, the monastery experienced a rapid cultural development and spiritual ritual.
1205
Sint-Truiden (Belgium)
Visionaries: St. Lutgard of Tongres (1182-1246), prioress of the Benedictine convent of St. Catherine near Saint-Trond
The Mother of God appeared often to Lutgard of Tongres (1182-1246) since she became, in 1205, prioress of the Benedictine convent of St. Catherine near Saint-Trond. Our Lady appeared to her frequently to urge people to repentance and prayer, showing the Sorrowful Passion and the Life of her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to guide and comfort her. Lutgard retired (since 1206) in the Cistercian convent of Arwières near Brussels, where she had many ecstasies and visions. She observed a strict regime of penitence and led an ascetic life to obtain from God conversion of heretics. Lutgard has been given credit for many sinners redeemed, many diseases cured, and comfort of the souls of the suffering. The saint is regarded as the first devoted to the worship of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and was distinguished especially for her mystical gifts
1208
Prouille, Toulouse (France)
Visionary:St. Dominic Guzman (1170-1221) Title: Our Lady of the Rosary
Holy Maria appeared several times to St. Dominic Guzman (1170-1221), inspired him and protected him in his efforts for the foundation of the Order of Preachers and the struggle against the heresies of the Albigenses and Waldenses. In one of these many apparitions, Mary unveiled to him the Rosary to be used as an important medium and activity against the enemies of Catholicism. She especially called to him contemplate the most important mysteries of faith. The Dominicans in fact undertook the care and the spreading of the prayer of the Rosary.
Visionary: a poor dumb man Title: Beata Vergine di "Noli me tollere" (Blessed Virgin of "Do not kill me")
A poor dumb man who was wandering around the beach, met a beautiful lady with a smiling face and incredible sweetness who commanded him to come back soon in the village. She told him to go to the priests and the people and tell them that she wanted to be with them to protect them and defend them from all enemies. The mute was stunned since he did not know how to express himself verbally, and the ebst he could do would be to show signs since he was deprived of speech, but the Lady urged him to obey, assuring him that he would hebe able to perfrom the task.
The man returned to the country, and met with the pastor leading the other people, and first told him with gestures and signs and then with speech. As people, attracted by the novelty of the thing, flocked from all parts, the mute tongue had melted and he was able to clearly tell what he had seen and had been told to report.
All of them were in amazement, and the miracle which was confirmed by the fact reportedly left no doubt. So now the pastor gathered all the people and urged by him to hope and gratitude, all marched in procession to the place indicated by the healed mute, but instead of the beautiful woman found a statue of the Blessed Virgin. They took that holy image with all possible respect and returned to their lucky country on May 26, 1208. They took the Holy Image to the parish church of San Pantaleo, and after a long and devout prayer, everyone returned to their homes.
Visionary: Princess Ermesinde Title: Our Lady of Ermesinde
Ermesinde Countess of Luxembourg had a vision of Mary with her Divine Child, surrounded by many black-white spotted sheep. The noble woman told this vision to a pious hermit in order to understand the meaning and he explained that it would be an invitation to found of the Cistercian convent of women (black and white dress). For this reason, the convent was built Clairefon Aquitaine, where priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus now reside.
1216
Assisi (Umbria/Italy)
Visionary: St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)
Francis (1181-1226) received the church of St. Mary of the Angels near Assisi from the abbot of the Benedictines of Monte Subiaco. This became the site of the new order and was also called Porziuncola. St. Francis spent the night in contemplation and prayer, where Christ and Mary appeared to him accompanied by several angels. The Lord to just wanted to show Francis, who was amazed by the stunning appearance, how pleasing that place was for Him and how many graces would come. The church became the center of the Porziuncola of the Franciscan Order, which was later confirmed by Pope Innocent III in the same year and in 1212 Order of Poor Clares was established. St. Francis received the gift of the Sacred Stigmata in 1224 and died there in 1226.
The indulgence of the Porziuncola (full remission of sin and markets receiving the sacrament of penance) illustrates the influence of this grace in this place for centuries.
Orders Franciscans (as well: Poor Clares, Capuchins, minorities) have been especially dedicated to the Marian devotion evenl today. Francis was canonized in 1228.
The commitment of the Franciscans through the centuries to defend the Immaculate Conception, which contributed so much to its solemn dogmatic proclamation of this mystery in 1854, is one of the most distinctive features of their way to relive the experience of the Poor Man of Assisi. Francis, who led his life under the aegis of the Mother of God and dedicated songs and prayers of praise.
VILLERS (Belgium)
Visionary: a lay brother of Villers Cistercian Abbey
The Blessed Virgin
appeared to a lay brother of Villers Cistercian Abbey. He lived isolated from the community since he suffered from leprosy. Desperatedue to his serious illness, although he was an ardent devotee of the Holy Virgin Mary, decided to commit suicide on Christmas Eve. But then the Holy Mother, as narrated in the tradition, appeared to him and said to him: "Do not lose courage! God loves those who try. In this way wants to perfect his most beloved Son. " With these words the Lady disappeared heading towards the church. The friar found much comfort from this apparition.
Paris (France)
Visionary: Bl. Boniface (1188-1265)
Blessed Boniface was born in 1188 in Brussels and studied theology. Already during the time he was a professed a master of theology in Paris, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him a few times and promised to support him in his aspiration to holiness. After Bonifacio was seriously ill and, while lying in the solitude of his cell, the Virgin appeared to him holding the infant Jesus in her arms. This apparition gave Boniface a miraculous recovery.
In 1231, Boniface was appointed bishop of Lausanne, but left the post in 1239 to retire to the convent Ter Cameren La Cambre (Brussels).
August 1, 1218
Barcelona (Spain)
Visionary: Saint Peter Nolasco Title: Our Lady of Ransom / Our Lady of Merced
The Blessed Virgin would appear on August 2, 1218 to Peter Nolasco (1182-1249), later to become a saint, to induce him to found an organization that would re-take the Christian prisoners of the Moslems. Peter Nolasco had previously rescued some prisoners at his own expense.
He lived at the time the court of James I of Aragon and met Raymond Peñafort with whom he founded the Order of Mercy, originally conceived as an order of knights. Peter was at the helm of this Order until 1249, linberting many hundreds of Christian prisoners. [ More about this apparition ]
Rome (Italy)
Visionary: Deacon Reginald of Orleans
Deacon Reginald of Orleans made a pilgrimage trip to Rome to know the Lord Jesus Christ what he should do to achieve perfection. Arriving in Rome he fell ill. Then appeared to Mary as' Queen of Heaven, "accompanied by two virgins who healed him and encouraged him to join the Order of Preachers of St. Dominic.
Trier (Germany)
Visionary: A priest
According to popular tradition: a priest was caught in a terrible storm in open country and took shelter in a chapel where he entered and knelt to pray. While he was absorbed in prayer, he saw the Holy Virgin who appeared that said: "As long as you recite six Salve Reginas you will be sheltered under my cloak and be safe from the storm."
Lowen (Belgium)
Visionary: A Jewish girl named Rachel
A Jewish girl named Rachel, who was fervently attracted to the Catholic faith and secretly cultivated a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, finally decided to get baptized and join a Cistercian monastery. That night appeared to Mary in a cloak of heavenly light, which was a sign of approval for her decision.
1220
Morocco
Visionary: St. Accursio (franciscan, martyr +1220, canonized 1481)
A religious sent by St Francis of Assisi a envangelize the Muslims of Spain, he died of decapitation in Morocco. The Virgin mary appeared to him on two occasions with St. Placido and St. Anthony of Padua, shortly before his death, according to an unverifiable source.
Source: Dictionary of the Apparitions of the Virgin Mary p 59. (Sausseret, t. II, 1854, 2.)
1221
Padua (Venice)
Visionary: St. Anthony of Padua
Anthony of Padua (1195-1231) is one of the most popular saints of Christendom. Anthony reached Morocco to preach the Gospel. After some time he fell ill and, having understood this sudden illness to be a sign of the Lord, returned to Europe. On the way back, the ship that was to bring him back home went off course and ran aground near Messina.
Anthony lived for a time in a Franciscan monastery from which he was to leave his true spiritual mission. One day while he was still at the convent, The Mother of God and Child Jesus appeared in all their majesty and showed him the spiritual journey ahead. Inspired by this apparition of the Virgin Mary, Anthony traveled: after having walked in the direction of Assisi in Easter of 1221 to attend the Chapter of Pentecost, on May 30, he entered the hermitage of Montepaolo (Forlì) Franciscan province of Romagna. Since then became known as a fervent preacher in northern Italy. Anthony was canonized by Pope Gregory IX in the cathedral of Spoleto May 30, 1232. In 1263, his body was taken to Padua in the new basilica. His tongue still intact evidence of the gift of the grace of preaching. San Antonio is famous for his sermons that have earned him the title of Doctor of the Church (1946).
1222
Bologna (Italy)
Visionary: Blessed Jordan of Saxony
Blessed Jordan of Saxony was the successor of St. Dominic at the head of the Order of Preachers. Often received the grace of seeing the Blessed Virgin Mary in the church, in his convent or elsewhere, whose appearance renewed her promise to stay beside him and protect him in his difficult task. Between 1222 and 1237, thanks to his preaching, many professors and students of the universities of Paris, Oxford, Bologna, Padua, Vercelli and Montpellier entered his Order. Jordan served in the papal curia and preached among the Saracens. He drowned in a shipwreck near the Syrian coast during a trip in 1237.
Bonn (Germany)
Visionary: A woman in prison
The popular legend is about a woman who decided to devote herself totally to God and thus became walled up alive in a cell next to a cemetery near Bonn. One night, while the inmate was absorbed in meditation, she suddenly saw a light: then she looked down on the side of the cemetery and saw the Holy Virgin stopping near a tomb. From the tomb, where a few days before had been buried a very devout child, a white dove flew out and Mary took her hands and said: "I am the Mother of the Lord and bring the soul of this child who suffered to Heaven."
May 9, 1225
Baños de la Encina, Jaén, Andalucia, Spain
Title: Virgen de la Encina Feast: 2nd Sunday in May
1225
Cologne (Germany)
Visionary: St. Albert the Great (Albertus Magnus) (1193-1280)
St. Albert the Great entered the Dominican order in 1223 in Padua and in 1225 he went to Cologne. At that time, when he was thinking of leaving religious life, the Holy Virgin Mary appeared to him to promise her support if he continued to walk the spiritual path. In gratitude to Our Lady, St. Albert wrote some important works on the meaning and nature of the Mother of God and was one of the leading scholars of the Middle Ages (Doctor of the Universal Church). He possessed, as no other medieval thinker of his era, an immense knowledge of theology, including that of Jewish and Arab traditions. Albert taught in various schools.
Source: Ernst 1989, 29; L. Sturlese "Albert le Grand" DEMA, t. I, 30-31
Rome (Italy)
Visionary: Pope Honorius III
In Rome, some major disputes had sprung up around the recognition of the ecclesiastical rule of the Order of Caramel. Pope Honorius III (1216-1227) had the difficult decision of recognition of adversity Order of Carmelites. One night, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared and sternly ordered him to pay no heed to enemies, but to approve the rule because the order would produce good works. Our Lady spoke to Pope Honorius in this way: "My command is not to be contradicted and what I ask should not remain unheeded." Then she predicted to the pope the death of both the main opponents of the Order. The next morning, as the Lady had predicted, he learned the news the unexpected death of the two cardinal opposed to the Carmelite Order.
Soon after, Pope Honorius III approved the Rule of the Carmelites, who through the centuries they were known for their spiritual life and the fervent Marian devotion.
1226
Wartburg (Germany)
Visionary: St. Elizabeth of Thuringia (1207 - 1231)
St. Elizabeth of Thuringia had an apparition of the Blessed Virgin who disclosed some mysteries from her time spent in the Temple in Jerusalem.
The appearance paid off: the third daughter Elizabeth became the abbess of Altenberg.
c. 1230
Apulia (Italy)
Visionary: Saint Peter Celestine (1221-1296)
Saint Peter Celestine was the eleventh of the twelve children of a poor Italian farmer. As a child, Peter had visions of our Blessed Lady, Angels and Saints. His heavenly visitors encouraged him in his prayers and chided him when he fell into any fault. His mother, though only a poor widow, sent him to school, feeling sure that he would one day be a Saint.
At the age of twenty, he left his home in Apulia to live in a mountain solitude. Here he passed three years, assaulted by the evil spirits and beset with temptations of the flesh, but consoled by the visits of Angels. After this his seclusion was invaded by disciples who refused to be sent away; and the rule of life which he gave them formed the foundation of the Celestines, a branch of the Order of Saint Benedict.
Angels assisted in the church which Peter built; unseen bells rang peals of surpassing sweetness, and heavenly music filled the sanctuary when he offered the Holy Sacrifice; he had consented to be ordained, to find in the Holy Eucharist assistance against temptation.
Suddenly the poor anchorite found himself torn from his loved
solitude, having been named by acclamation to the Papal throne, which had remained vacant for twenty-seven months. Resistance was of no avail. He took the name of Celestine, to remind him of the heaven he was leaving and for which he sighed. He was seventy-two years old.
After a reign of five months, Peter judged himself unfit for the
office, and summoning the cardinals to his presence, he solemnly resigned his trust.
During the remaining three years of his life he worked many and great miracles. On the day after his abdication, his blessing after Mass healed a lame man. Saint Peter left the palace, desiring seclusion, but was brought back by the papal guards, for his successor feared a schism; crowds had followed Saint Peter. Lest he be prevailed upon to take back his office, he was put under surveillance at Anagni.
Content, he remarked: "I desired nothing but a cell, and a cell they have given me." And there he enjoyed his former loving intimacy with the Saints and Angels, and sang the Divine praises almost continually.
At length, on Pentecost Sunday he told his guards he would die within the week, and immediately fell ill. He received the Last Sacraments, and the following Saturday, as he finished the concluding verse of Lauds, "Let every spirit bless the Lord!" he closed his eyes to this world and opened them to the vision of God.
Sources: Les Petits Bollandistes: Vies des Saints, by Msgr. Paul Guérin (Bloud et Barral: Paris, 1882), Vol. 6; Little Pictorial Lives of the Saints, a compilation based on Butler's Lives of the Saints and other sources by John Gilmary Shea (Benziger Brothers: New York,1894); Vie des Saints pour tous les jours de l'année, by Abbé L. Jaud (Mame: Tours, 1950).
Padua (Venice)
Visionary: Blessed Helen of Padua
Franciscan Blessed Helen of Padua suffered much in her life, but received this suffering with patience and Christian devotion. The Holy Virgin appeared to her often to console her and give her strength in the face of pain.
Villers (Belgium)
Visionary: Gottardo, a Cistercian Monk
Gottardo, a Cistercian Monk, saw Mary at the Feast of the Annunciation where the Mother of God was in the midst of the choir monks engrossed in prayer at night. After listening to the monks for awhile, the Blessed Virgin left the choir with a happy face. The Monk followed her and then she said, "Go back and remain among your brothers, you will soon be called to be with me in heaven and you will respect my Son." Shortly thereafter, Gottardo left the earthly world.
Kiev (Ukraine)
Visioany: St. Hyacinth of Poland (1198-1257) Title: Queen of the Angels
The Holy Virgin Mary appeared as the Queen of the Angels at Odrowatz to Hyacinth. In this apparition she promised him assistance for a lifetime. When the Tartars invaded and burned the city of Kiev, Hyacinth, taking the Blessed Sacrament in his hand and the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, ran through the flames and miraculously reached the Dnieper River to rescue the sacred objects.
Saint Hyacinth, also known as "missionary of Russia", he studied in Krakow and took the Dominican habit from the very hands of Saint Dominic in the convent of Santa Sabina in Rome. Mandated to spread the new order in Poland, he founded several monasteries and created the Province of the Order of Preachers, which included the whole territory of Poland, Russia, Bohemia, Moravia, Silesia, Brandenburg, Pomerania and Prussia. Saint Hyacinth is the patron of Poland and one of the apostles of the Slavs. He was canonized by Pope Clement VIII in 1594.
Aug 15, 1233
Florence (Italy)
Visionaries: Buonfiglio dei Monaldi (Bonfilius), Giovanni di Buonagiunta (Bonajuncta), Amadeus of the Amidei (Bartolomeus), Ricovero dei Lippi-Ugguccioni (Hugh), Benedetto dell' Antella (Manettus), Gherardino di Sostegno (Sostene), and Alessio de' Falconieri (Alexius) (The seven founders of the Order of the Servites)
Seven men of the Florentine nobility were involved in the brotherhood of "Laude" to venerate the Holy Virgin Mary. On the day of the Feast of the Assumption, the Blessed Virgin appeared to them to urge them to make their lives even more holy and perfect. They decided to follow the advice of Mary and left the business world to retire to a life of prayer and penance, especially giving themselves over to the veneration of the Virgin Mary. On Good Friday, in 1239 Holy Mary appeared again and showed them a black cassock that in future they should wear, with what would motivate them to establish a new religious order. The Order would spread especially the veneration of the Sorrows that the Blessed Virgin bore with the Cross. Thus arose the Order of the Servants of Mary, Servites, or the Friars of the Hail Mary, who found rapid and wide dissemination. The seven founders of the Order of the servants were all canonized: Buonfiglio dei Monaldi (Bonfilius), Giovanni di Buonagiunta (Bonajuncta), Amadeus of the Amidei (Bartolomeus), Ricovero dei Lippi-Ugguccioni (Hugh), Benedetto dell' Antella (Manettus), Gherardino di Sostegno (Sostene), and Alessio de' Falconieri (Alexius)
Agde (France)
Visionary: Laodato Monaco (preacher)
Our Lady appeared to the preacher Laodato Monaco, who had always revered her , and preparing for the forthcoming transition.
Monte Fano (Marche)
Visionary: Abbot San Silvestre GOZZELINO
Holy Maria appeared several times to Abbot San Silvestre GOZZELINO (1267), founder of the Congregation of Silvestrini. He was miraculously saved and healed by Our Lady. On another occasion, Mary gave him Holy Communion and Jocelyn was particularly enlightened and filled with grace.
WRANAU (Moravia)
Visionary: Wilhelm Rosenberg, a nobleman
Mary appeared to the nobleman Wilhelm Rosenberg, who had become blind and no doctor could help him. The Virgin asked him: "Do you want to get well?". "Who are you?" Asked Rosenberg in return, and she replied: "I am the Mother of Pure Love! Accept my son and build me a church on Mount Wranau and receive again the gift of sight. " The blindman trusted and built the church. Soon after his prayers he was healed.
1241
Hostýn (Moravia/Czech Republic)
Visionaries: townspeople Title: Guardian Virgin Mary, Our Lady of the Assumption, Our Lady of Svaty Hostýn
Above the main altar of the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady is located a life size statue of the Virgin Mary. The Child Jesus, whom she is holding in her embrace, is aiming bolts of lightening at the Tatars depicted beneath the statue. These cruel marauders, who were threatening Europe during the 13th century, invaded Moravia in 1241, murdering and plundering. The people sought refuge in the forests and mountains to save their lives and whatever property they could bring with them. According to legend, those who found refuge on Hostýn were saved through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, when the encampment of the marauders was destroyed by fire caused by lightning. Another legend tells of a visit to Hostýn by the Apostles of the Slavs, Sts. Cyril and Methodius, who are said to have destroyed a pagan place of worship there and erected a chapel in honor of Mary.
1246
Viterbo (Lazio)
Visionary: St. Rose of Viterbo
The Heavenly Mother appeared to St. Rose of Viterbo (1235-1252), and restored her health when she, still a girl, was on her death bed. Mary urged her to wear the dress of a penitent, to enter into a community of Franciscan tertiaries, and take a stand against the growing immorality of the time.
Rosa, just twelve years old, began to preach publicly calling the people to religious renewal and morals and exhorting them to trust in the Pope. Her religious enthusiasm inspired many people to change their lives and to convert. She died at 17. Her body lies incorrupt in the monastery church of Santa Maria de Rosis Viterbo.
c. 1250
Swieta Lipka, (Poland)
Visonary: a prisoner
History narrates that in the 13th century a condemned innocent person was saved by the Most Holy Mother in this way: the night before his execution she appeared to him in his prison cell in Rastenburg. Bringing him a piece of wood and a knife, she told him to carve an image of the Blessed Mother with Child. The man sculpted a beautiful image of the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus. It was so deeply moving that the jailers and the judge believed in the apparition story told by the convict and they gave him back his freedom. Thanking the Blessed mother for having saved his life, the man filled with joy went in the direction of Rossel, looking for a linden tree along the road, upon which he could place his sculpture, as the Glorious Lady had suggested to him during the vision. Precisely here, where the present day Basilica is located, the had found the magnificent linden tree, In a short time place became famous thanks to the miracles and to healings. Astonished shepherds saw their own lambs kneel down as they were passing beside the linden tree, and the blind regained their sight. It is also said that the Holy Linden upon which the statue was hung was not just an old linden tree, but that it was already venerated in a pre-Christian era. It was considered the home of Puskaite, goddess of fertility and of grain, in whose honor certain festivals were held in spring and autumn.
The Virgin appeared several times to St. Mathilda of Hackeborn (1241-1299), who in seven years entered the Cistercian convent of Rodersdorf, where her sister Gertrude was already a nun. The holy woman was distressed over her eternal salvation and prayed that the Most Holy Virgin to assist at the hour of death. The Blessed Virgin appeared to her and reassured her, saying: "Yes, I will! But I wish, for your part, that you recite three Hail Marys every day, remembering the first power received by the Eternal Father, in the second the wisdom received from the Son, with the third one I love has filled the Holy Spirit ".The Blessed Virgin taught her to pray and to understand especially on how the Three Hail Marys honor the three persons of the Blessed Trinity. She became the superior of the convent school. Her contemplation and devotion was closely tied to the liturgy. Gertrude the Great noted, the last seven years of life of Matilda, the gifts of His grace interiors (Liber specialis gratiae). Matilda was always inspired not only by the veneration of Mary, but also to the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Source: latheotokos.it
c.1250
Somma Lombardo (Italy)
Visionary: A deaf mute young shepherdess Title: Our Lady of the Acorn
c. 1250
Albendorf (Poland)
Visionary: knight
At Castle-Albendorf Rathen, a knight testified of an apparition of the Virgin Mary. Some faithful still go to the place to make a pilgrimage. In 1512 a church was built, evlated to a cathedral in 1723.
Source: Gamba 1999, 285 and Hierzenberger, 193, 120-121.
1250
Lucca (Tuscany)
Visionary: St. Zita
Late one evening Zita (1212-1272) returned to Lucca from a distant pilgrimage to Lucca where she was working as a maid at a rich bourgeois family of Fatinelli. Before entering the city, suddenly came across a foreign maid along the way and the two women went together to the city gate. Upon arrival at the her house Zita recognized that the foreign lady was the Blessed Virgin Mary who, at then said goodbye to her and disappeared.
Many miracles, after this apparition of Mary were attributed to Lucca. Shortly after the death of Zita, she was venerated locally by Bishop Paganello and, in 1696, was canonized by Pope Innocent XII. Her incorrupt body is venerated in San Frediano. Zita is the patron saint of servants.
Title: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
Visionary: St. Simon Stock Feast Day: July 16
St. Simon Stock (1165-1265) was first a hermit, then from 1236 to 1247 a Carmelite and was elected prior general of the Order of Carmelites. Mary appeared to him July 16, 1251 and handed him the "wings", the cape that hung around his neck, that he should take particular as a symbol of union with Mary, as a token of gratitude, devotion and grace. In 1322 the use of the scapular was approved by Pope John XXII as a symbol of salvation. Even now there is the Brotherhood of the Scapular, whose members wear this cape and say three Hail Marys every day, Gloria and three so-called prayer of the scapular.
Visionary: St. Aldobrandesca of Siena (1243-1309)
Title: Our Lady of the Apocalypse
While he was a young girl as a third order Humiliate di Siena, Aldobrandesca was privileged to received a number of apparitions and visions. The more she rejoiced at receiving them, the more she received them. One day she asked to see Virgin, Our Lady appeared to her, dressed in a dress of linen, ornamented with precious gems and with a crown of gold, the sun underneath her feet appearing as the woman of the Apocalypse. In her hand she had a tablet on which was written the following statement:"Daughters, observe the law of the mother". Another time she asked to see, with her own eyes, in the flesh Christ with His mother. Then, there was a vision of the nativity and of the mystery that was accomplished that day and that night, and a vision of the adoration of the Magi and the flight into Egypt. The visions of Aldobrandesca are documented in her hagiography from the 16th century archive of documents.
Source: AASS, April t. IV, 474; S. Barnay, Le Ciel sur la terre, 1999.
Florence (Italy)
Visionary: St. Philip Benizi (1233-1285)
Mary appeared to Philip Benizi (1233-1285) twice and drove him to join the Order of the Serfs. After his studies in philosophy and theology, he followed the advice of Mary, and was ordained a priest in 1259. In 1267, he became superior general of the Serfs. Thanks to him the Order grew rapidly, albeit briefly banned by the council of Lyons.
Philip Benizi made many missionary journeys in Italy, France and Germany. He converted the holy Pellegrino Laziosi who became one of the most famous Servants of Mary. In the conclave that elected Pope Gregory X, Philip Benizi was among the applicants. He showed a particularly heroic love for the sick and the poor, motivated by his strong devotion to Mary. He was canonized in 1671.
Heisterbach (GERMANY)
Visionary: Cistercian Monks
While the Cistercian monks of Heisterbach sang the Te Deum , the heavenly Mother appeared in the middle of the choir bearing in her hands a gold chain and a valuable crown. She explained to the monks the meaning of these symbols saying that they should be united in prayer and love one another, as the chain symbolized, so they would have received the crown of eternal bliss.
Margaret Island, Budapest (Hungary)
Visionary: Saint Margaret of Hungary (1242-1270)
Saint Margaret of Hungary, daughter of Hungarian King Bela IV, grandson of Elizabeth of Thuringia, was sent to be educated at the age of four to the Dominican convent of Veszprem. From the age of ten, she lived in the new monastery, built by her father on the island of Hasen (later called Margaret Island) on the Danube in Budapest. She refused several proposals of marriage and finally took the veil from the hands of Archbishop von Gran. In the monastery, she led a devout life of penance and prayer. Shortly before his death appeared to Mary standing on a cart and said, "I have heard your prayer. Be strong and faithful, I'll be your support." Shortly after her untimely death, Margaret was venerated as a saint by the people, however, was only canonized in 1943.
Tortosa (Spain)
Visionary: priest
Holy Mary appeared overnight to a devout priest who prayed before the altar, and there she left behind her belt. Soon numerous artistic representations of this event spread to Spain and it resulted in many miraculous healings.
Siena (Tuscany)
Visionary: Blessed John Piccolomini
Holy Mary appeared four times to Blessed John Piccolomini (1259-1305). He came from an ancient and noble family of Rome, took office in Siena, and entered the Order of Servants 14 years and was beatified in 1609.
Helft (GERMANY)
Visionary: St. Gertrude (1256-1302)
St. Gertrude, the great Helfta , originally from Thuringia, went at the age of five to the Cistercian monastery of Helfta. In this convent of the Abbess Gertrude Hacketal tried to create a center of mystical life, so the future saint could receive instruction in the humanities and theological-spiritual. At twenty-six she began to have daily experiences with mystical visions of Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. She described these visions, as well as the mystical experiences of his sister Matilda of Hackeborn. The saint has left us an account of many mystical experiences of her life, including records from 1289 until her death. The appearances are often received by Gertrude linked to liturgical celebrations, especially the Eucharist and the Heart of Jesus
Apparitions and multiple forms of mystical encounters with the Blessed Virgin Mary are described in her Legatus divinæ pietatis (Herald of Divine Love). Gertrude was canonized in 1734 and is considered the greatest German mystic.
1268
AVEZZANO (Italy)
Visionary: A deaf-mute shepherd Title: Our Lady of Pietraquaria
According to tradition, the chapel and the entire estate was destroyed in 1268 by order of Charles of Anjou. The icon remained under the rubble for a long time and was found intact by a revelation of the Virgin Mary to a deaf and dumb shepherd boy. He miraculously healed. For this reason, the parish priest, with the collaboration of the faithful of Avezzano, saw to repair the church where he placed the sacred effigy with dignity. Subsequently, at different periods of time, work was carried out in the Church on its extension and transformation which have radically improved as a whole both in terms of its functionality and architectural appearance.
Sources: http://www.mariadinazareth.it; http://santuariceam.it ; http://www.guidabruzzo.it ; magazine "Madre di Dio", May 2005
August 8, 1282
Messina (Italy)
Title: Our Lady of Montalto / The White Lady Visionaries: Nicholas (a friar) and several soldiers
There were two reports of Our Lady appearing at times of war to help Messina against the French: August 8th, 1282 and November 21st, 1301
During the Sicilian Vespers, ,Messina was under 'siege of the French commanded by Viceroy Charles D' Anjou, who was certain that the city in the grip of hunger and famine were to capitulate from one moment to ' another. But with the passage of time, seeing that the city stronglyy resisted, he decided to go to the very strong castles. On August 6, 1282, the French attempted to storm the fortress of San Salvatore but the young gallant charge of the defense of the walls heroically repulsed the 'attack causing heavy losses among the French soldiers. The people of Messina knew that the enemy was stronger and better organized, and more than that in the forces of their weapons relied mostly to prayer, asking for help to the Blessed Virgin (still in the prayers of Messina often used the phrase "OH MOTHER QUEEN OF THE LETTER MESSINA SAVE, SAVE MESSINA ").
The 'August 8 unleashed a violent storm of Messina, water and hail fell as they could, the men and women took refuge in their homes, leaving the walls of the city defenseless, the enemy took advantage of immediately approaching the hill capperina unleashing a devastating attack. The commander of troops of Messina, Alaimo Leontini, realizing the danger in time, sounded the alarm at the cost of many victims the danger was gone. But the people of Messina were now to the strong forces, given that victims were numerous and food were scarce. The French knew well and that night again went on the attack, but there were two women guards Dina and Clarenza (whose statues are reproduced in movement in the bell tower of the cathedral), and while Dina threw stones at the French military, was Clarenza in town to ring the bells as a sign of alarm.
The battle was tough but the people of Messina were not alone to fight, during the fight, made an imposing appearance of the White Lady at whom the French were unable to look, was seen at key points in the battle to hang on the walls of the white veils that became resistant , and departed unseen archers arrows hitting the troops of Charles D 'Anjou, who seized with fear beat a retreat. That mysterious White Lady who threw darts and defended the walls with white veils, was none other than the Madonna, who had run to help her people.
The White Lady made her second appearance on November 21, 1301, again defending the walls of Messina, and could be seen by everyone because it was broad daylight. A French soldier attemped to hurl an arrow against her but hitting the dart came back in a eye.
After this new appearance, the French were frightened, took off the 'siege and left the city. The hill of capperina has always been a sacred place for the people of Messina.
Holy Mary appeared to Saint Pellegrino Laziosi, after which he, during a popular uprising, found himself among the troublemakers who insulted St. Philip Benizi. His benevolent and mild reaction led to the conversion of Laziosi, who retired to pray before an image of Mary in the cathedral of Forlì to illuminate the future path of his life. Mary advised him to join the Order of the Servants. After an initial period of training at Siena, he continued his religious activities in Forli. He worked tirelessly in preaching, prayer and penance and showed unshaleable patience especially in diseases. Because he managed to miraculously heal from a tumor in his leg, he was revered as the patron protector against cancer and suffering feet. San Pellegrino Laziosi was canonized in 1726.
1285
TOLENTINO (MARCHE)
Visionary: St. Nicholas of Tolentino (1245-1305)
Holy Mary appeared several times to the hermit, Nicholas of Tolentino . Once she advised during a serious illness, to take only bread and water, and he was healed. From this event, even during his life, the custom grew of eating only "bread of Nicholas" in the course of serious illness. Between 1305 and 1325 301 miracles were officially certified, in this context! Nicholas was a preacher, confessor, master of novices and active in the apostolate for the sick. He underwent severe asceticism, and was canonized in 1446.
1290
Foligno (Italy)
Visionary: Blessed Angela of Foligno (1249-1309)
Mary often appeared to Blessed Angela of Foligno deserve much mystical experiences and these experiences were written under the dictation of Angela, in 1297 by her confessor, Friar Arnaldo. The final draft (approved by Cardinal Colonna) was later published under the title: Memorial. Angela was married up to age 40, but after the death of her husband and childrenm she was accepted in a third order community according to the rule of St. Francis and lived in poverty and prayer, consecrating himself entirely to the mystical life.
Angela of Foligno was given the title of Magistra Theologorum, sign unusual in an age when theology was virtually dominated by men only. Every sin reinforces the kingdom of darkness, every good deed that good. She chose Christ as his Lord and Master, and received wisdom of his cross directly and the wisdom of God His whole mystical experience, what he saw and heard, and then dictated to her spiritual director. It is not human but divine knowledge, a infused knowledge that it needed to be communicated. This was clearly recognized by theologians who did teach her.
Angela of Foligno, immediately after her death on January 4, 1309, was venerated as a saint. In 1693 she was beatified. Pius X or endorse the tradition and without the instruction of a real process of canonization, he established the feast on the anniversary of her death.
MUHLLACKEN (AUSTRIA)
Visionary: Bruno Knappen
Bruno Knappen, though injured and suffering from leprosy, had managed to get back to Austria, but his master, the knight Hans von Schaumburg, remained a prisoner of the Saracens after a fight where he was outnumbered. Mary and Child Jesus appeared to himself and gave instructions to cure him: "In the name of Jesus Christ, under the jet wet spring water that is released from the rock in the stream of Pensen. Bruno Knappen followed the Council and was healed. This miraculous cure was soon known and Mühllacken became a pilgrimage destination.
Near the fourteenth century, the Virgin legendarily appeared to Mary Madia and asked her to build a chapel in memory of her coming. A small chapel was built which later will be replaced by a shrine, reconstructed in 1760 and enlarged in 1938.
Source: Dictionary of the Apparitions of the Virgin Mary. p.580 Laurentin; Ernst 1989, 43; Gamba 1999, 298.
June 12, 1294
Messina (Italy)
Title: Our Lady of Montalto / The White Lady Visionaries: Nicholas (a friar)
One night a humble friar named Nicholas dreamt of the Virgin Mary who told him to go the next day by the Senate of Messina and inform them that Our Lady wanted a temple on that hill, dedicated as the Lady of the High Mountain.
In the morning, the friar thought it was all his imagination, and not believing that the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ would go to a poor friar and thought no more of it.
The next night, the Virgin appeared in a dream again to Nicholas, scolding him for disobedience. The monk then asked him how he could get himself heard by the Senate. Our Lady told him not to despair, and the next day at noon, a white dove on the hill site was outlined and the area where the church was to be built.
So it was, June 12, 1294, the hill was full of people and notables of Messina, and it had the appearance of a white dove marked out the air (this story is represented by statues in motion in the bell tower of the cathedral).
Fra Nicholas then went to the nearby Matagrifone castle to find the Queen Constance which set forth the facts, there was present a court lady who advised the queen to drive the monk away. The evil courtesan was suddenly seized with paralysis of her arm, and excruciating pain throughout the body. The monk advised her to apologize to Madonna, she did so, and the pain went away.
Queen Constance, remained shaken from the occurrence, and she promised her help, indeed it was she who laid the first stone in 1295 the church was already built.
Source: Laurentin, Rene and Sbalchiero, Patrick. Dictionary of he Apparitions of the Virgin Mary p.
Gamba, Mario. "Apparizioni mariane nel corso di due millenni" 1999 p 284
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