Our Lady of Bocciola
Vacciago di Ameno, Italy (1528)
The Sanctuary of Bocciola in Ameno has its origins on Monday, May 28, 1543, when "the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to a girl who was tending animals".
Giulia Manfredi of Vacciago, dumb from birth, suddenly saw in a blaze in the branches of a lackthorn the Madonna and Child. Our Lady asked them to increase their devotion and in return would be her special protection. As proof of the truth of the promise and the appearance, Giulia Manfredi began to speak.
When she told the neighbours what had happened and what had been commanded, suddenly the church bells began to ring without being touched by anyone.
The church has been elevated by Pope Gregory XVI in 1844 with the official title of “Sanctuary”.
Text and image used with permission.
Source: "365 Days with Mary" by Michael O'Neill
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