.... it was October 7, 1521 Battle of Lepanto, all of Christian Europe was threatened by the menace of the Ottoman Empire's invasion, the greatly outnumbered Christian fleet (the Holy League -led by Don Juan of Austria contained vessels from Venice, Spain, the Papal Estates, Genoa, Savoy, Malta) and engaged the enemy in battle, Pope St. Pius encouraged and called all to pray and in particular the Rosary, the Christian fleet rode to favorable winds which aided in the defeat of the Ottomans ..and prevented the spreading of their influence, and therefore protecting Christianity in the west, in thanksgiving Pope St Pius instituted the feast of Our lady of Victory and later was changed to the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary which we celebrate every Oct 7.
Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, Mama, today we still are threatened by a different and a not so different menace, everywhere you can see the oppression of Christians all over the world, we are threatened by the culture of death, contraceptions that eventually lead to abortions, abortions, the corruption of families, marriage being defined differently... Mama your Son, Jesus said "Woman behold thy son, son behold your mother" and through those words of your Son, like John we became your sons and daughters too, please take care of us. You left the rosary to use for prayer and meditation - the summary of your son Jesus and your life here in earth, and for us to use as weapon in all these battles we are now facing.
Mama today on your special day too, readings at Mass were for those intending to marry, married couples and those who have separated or divorced from their partners, Mama please take care of those who are suffering today, for those who are lonely, for those whose marriages are in trouble, those who have lost their spouses, and those who are separated or divorced..please help each and evey one of them and their families in ways they need. Help us stay and remain and obedient to the path God wants for us, albeit all difficulties and discomforts. Please never leave us in this journey and battle of and for life. Happy Feast day Mama Mary:)
