Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Chapel of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
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Devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a popular Catholic devotion centered on a 15th-century Byzantine icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus. The image is famous for its deep symbolism and for being associated with countless reports of answered prayers and miracles.
The Icon
The original icon is housed at the Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori in Rome, entrusted to the Redemptorist Fathers in 1866 by Pope Pius IX. The image shows Mary holding the child Jesus, who appears frightened by the instruments of His Passion, held by the archangels Michael and Gabriel.
Title Meaning
"Perpetual Help" (or "Perpetual Succour") emphasizes Mary's ongoing intercession for all who seek her aid, especially in times of difficulty.
Novena
The weekly novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help is one of the most widespread devotional practices. It typically includes prayers, hymns, and petitions, and is held on Wednesdays in many churches around the world.
Feast Day
Celebrated on June 27 in the Roman Catholic Church.
Popular Prayers
The Novena Prayer
The Memorare to Our Lady of Perpetual Help
The Act of Consecration to Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Symbolism in the Icon
Jesus’ sandal is falling off—symbolizing his hurried run to Mary for protection.
Mary's gaze—turned toward the faithful, inviting them to bring their troubles to her.
Angels with instruments of the Passion—foretelling Christ’s future suffering.
Global Reach
This devotion is particularly popular in the Philippines, India, the Caribbean, and Latin America. The Baclaran Church in the Philippines is one of the largest Marian shrines in the world, drawing millions of devotees annually.