Biography
They have dared the white republics up the capes of Italy, They have dashed the Adriatic round the Lion of the Sea, And the Pope has cast his arms abroad for agony and loss, And called the kings of Christendom for sword about the Cross. ~G.K. Chesterton – Lepanto[1] The Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary commemorates our Mother’s faithful intercession at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. A fleet of allied Christian ships, united through Philip II of Spain and Pope Pius V, were victorious against the Ottoman Turks who were trying to solidify their hold on Cyprus. The victory spurred European morale and was attributed to Our Lady, as the Christian forces united in prayer to her before the battle. The Battle of Lepanto is one of many victories throughout history accredited to Our Lady’s power and goodness.[2][3] Written by Sarah Ciotti Reviewed by Fr. Hugh Feiss, OSB, STD [1] G.W. Chesterton, Lepanto, 7-10, www.bartleby.com, 1999. [2] Encyclopedia Britannica Inc., Battle of Lepanto (1571), www.britannica.com. [3] Leo XIII, Encyclical of Pope Leo XIII on the Rosary and Public Life, www.vatican.va. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now