Our Lady of Help
Bobbio, Italy (15th c.)
In the 1400s, Adriano Repetino, who had a vineyard in the fields of Corgnate outside Bobbio, built a wall along the road, and in it a niche with an image of Mary seated with the Child. In 1472, the image became a focus of local devotion: there were healings, and the picture changed its appearance.
After an investigation, Church authorities decided the site merited a chapel. Adriano donated property, and the building was dedicated to the Annunciation.
On June 5, 1611, miracles resumed. The picture was found covered in sweat.
The Bishop named the image the “Blessed Virgin of Help.” A larger church was consecrated in 1738.
In 1947, the image was crowned and in 1970 Pope Paul VI elevated the church to Basilica Minor.
Text and image used with permission.
Source: "365 Days with Mary" by Michael O'Neill
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