The Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal welcomed Marian devotees during this Holy Year to gather in prayer and devotion during the hallowed Solemn Novena and Solemnity Mass tradition in honor of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.
This year’s Solemn Novena theme was “Mary: Our Guide to the Heart of Jesus” and took place from Monday, November 17–Tuesday, November 25.
On November 26, Most Reverend Efren V. Esmilla, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, presided over Mass in honor of the Basilica Shrine’s patroness, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, who appeared to St. Catherine Labouré in 1830 in Paris, France, and instructed her to have the Miraculous Medal created and shared with the world.
Daily Novena, Solemnity Mass, and Livestreams
Throughout the nine days of the Solemn Novena, attendees gathered to pray, reflect, and participate in liturgies. Each day offered a new opportunity to spend in the presence of Our Lady and participate in a Eucharistic celebration.
For those unable to attend in person, the Basilica Shrine offered daily livestreams of the Solemn Novena and Mass, allowing viewers from across the country and around the world to gather in community. Viewers could also place intentions in the comments and would be lifted in prayer by the Basilica Shrine community.
Solemnity Mass Celebration
The Solemn Novena culminated with the Solemnity of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Novena and Mass, which drew an even larger crowd to the Basilica Shrine, and was also livestreamed. The Basilica Shrine was filled with joyous songs and prayer as Bishop Esmilla was joined by more than 20 Vincentian priests in the Celebration of the Eucharist. Vincentian seminarians and Daughters of Charity sisters also were among the congregation. After Mass, the bishop and Vincentians sang in front of Mary’s Main Shrine.
Coat Collection Drive
In addition to the Solemn Novena and Masses, the Basilica Shrine hosted its annual coat drive. Visitors were asked to donate new and gently used coats to help those in need during the colder months, reflecting the work of St. Vincent De Paul by combining faith with service and action to help those most in need.
Join in the Tradition
If you were unable to make it to the Basilica Shrine in person or online, spend time with Our Lady by watching the replays of the Solemn Novena and Solemnity Mass, which are available on the Basilica Shrine’s YouTube channel.
Visit Before the Jubilee Year Concludes
Be sure to stay up-to-date with all devotions, Masses, and events at the Basilica Shrine. All are welcome, and we hope you visit soon!