A Queen of Peace feast -- Our Lady of Knock

Our Lady of Knock: Feast 8-21

This multiple-vision apparition was approved by Archbishop Thomas P Gilmartin, Archdiocese of Tuam, Ireland in 1936. This apparition brought courage to the potato-famine generations. Knock symbolizes how much we are loved and never abandoned; despite whatever spiritual warfare we face.

• Our Lady, St Joseph and St John the Evangelist appeared in a blaze of light at the south gable of St John the Baptist Church, Knock, County Mayo, Ireland. They floated 2-feet above ground. Occasionally, each would move toward or away from the visionaries.

• The Blessed Virgin Mary was clothed in white robes with a brilliant crown fitted with a beautiful full-bloom golden rose. She was praying with her eyes and hands raised towards Heaven.

• St Joseph wore white robes, stood on Our Lady’s right, and was turned towards her in a respectful attitude.

• St John the Evangelist was dressed in white vestments and stood on Mother Mary’s left. He resembled a bishop, with a miter. He appeared to be preaching, holding an open book in his left hand.

• Behind them and left of St John was a plain altar with a cross and lamb, with adoring angels.

The apparition was witnessed by 15 people on August 21, 1879, of whose separate-testimonies reflected the consistent-details listed above. At a farm 1-mile away, a man states he saw the beautiful light and some sort of commotion around the church, at the same time. Miraculous healings were reported soon after, including TB-cures. It is now a major pilgrimage destination. Disclosure: in her wisdom, the Catholic Church does not mandate belief in private apparitions. This is done to preserve free-will.

Our Lady of Knock, Ireland is the only known wordless apparition. Therefore, the message of Knock seems to bring silent peace, hope and encouragement to listen for God’s voice; despite the many trials we face on our earthly journey.

Our Lady of Knock – A limerick prayer

In Knock on a soft August night, a vision appeared beaming bright.
St Joseph stood near, St John too was there, while Mary was clothed in pure light.
The Lamb on the altar was seen, with angels in worship serene.
A sign from above, of God’s endless love, & mercy that washes us clean.

O Queen, who, in silence did stay; tugs hearts in her soft, gentle way.
Alls hands raised in prayer, seeks His comfort & care; to bathe us in soul-soothing rays.
O Lady of Knock, gentle Queen; in trials where hope may run lean.
Pray Christ be our light, Who sends grace for our fight; to keep our hearts sinless and clean.

Dear Mother, we lift up our plea, protect us from pride and envy,
Guide our faithful fold, in faith strong and both bold, ‘til heaven’s fair homeland we see!

Sources:

Pilgrims of Hope | You Tube

The Story of Knock | YouTube