Maria Auxiliadora - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Maria Auxiliadora, also known as Mary Help of Christians, is a title of the Virgin Mary in the Roman Catholic Church.
- 2. The devotion to Maria Auxiliadora originated in the 16th century when a painting of the Virgin Mary was credited with miraculous healings and protection in times of war.
- 3. The image of Maria Auxiliadora typically depicts Mary holding the child Jesus in her arms, symbolizing her role as a helper and protector of Christians.
- 4. Maria Auxiliadora is often associated with the Salesian Order, founded by St. John Bosco in the 19th century. The Salesians have a special devotion to Mary Help of Christians and promote her veneration among their followers.
- 5. The feast day of Maria Auxiliadora is celebrated on May 24th each year in the Catholic Church.
- 6. Many churches and shrines around the world are dedicated to Maria Auxiliadora, with the most famous being the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin, Italy.
- 7. Devotion to Maria Auxiliadora is especially popular in Latin America, where she is often invoked for protection in times of danger and for guidance in difficult situations.
- 8. The color associated with Maria Auxiliadora is blue, symbolizing her purity and maternal care for her children.
- 9. Many Catholics believe that praying to Maria Auxiliadora can bring about miracles and blessings in their lives, especially in times of need.
- 10. The devotion to Maria Auxiliadora continues to be a source of comfort and strength for many Catholics around the world, who turn to her as a loving mother and protector in their daily lives.