Copy of miraculous picture speaks often to Saint Aloysius Gonzaga

But it is not only in Naples or Italy, that we are to look for wonders worked the copies of the Image of Our Lady of Good Counsel.

                  

From the first coming of the miraculous Image to Genazzano, the Augustinians all over the world, appear to have taken up the devotion most warmly, and to have spread it in every sphere of their influence.

So it extended through France, Germany, and Spain. In the latter country there existed a most beautiful copy in the church at Madrid, and this, amongst other wonders, was the one which spoke to the angelic youth St. Aloysius Gonzaga. The fact is well authenticated as may be seen from the history of the life of that marvel of youthful piety and wisdom.

He had like all others his crosses, his troubles, and his temptations. In no other saint's life, save in that of St. Stanislaus of Kostka, do we find such entanglements prepared by prosperity and adversity alike, to seduce young virtue at an age of all ages the most dangerous for the sons of the rich and the powerful.

In all these trials, Aloysius found his strength and comfort in prayer, long, ardent and heavenly, before this copy of the famous Madonna of Genazzano, Our Lady loved the beautiful soul of the innocent boy, and perfected him so wonderfully in a short period, that he soon possessed a seat high in heaven near Herself. From this picture then, She spoke to him not once, but many times; comforting him in his troubles, confirming him in his vocation, and giving him, it is said, a thousand expressions of her Maternal tenderness. No wonder he should become a saint and a great one.

What he experienced is simply that which is experienced, though perhaps in a less miraculous way, by all who approach the wonderful original. Thousands tell how Mary there appears to speak to them, to unravel the secrets of their hearts, to show them the future, to guide them in their course through life, to defend them against every danger of soul and body; and. in a word, to repay their devotion and love a hundred, aye, and a hundred thousand fold.

The life, the destiny, so to speak of each one, is peculiar. He must take it as God is pleased to provide it. Some have to guard against enemies, visible and invisible, dangers, trials, and troubles. To these Mary will prove a faithful Counselor, a shield of invincible strength, provided they approach with filial love to Her miraculous Image.

Nor is it necessary to go to Genazzano. St. Aloysius is a proof that Our Lady's favors are not confined to the pilgrims to the original, but are extended to all, who in any church like that of Madrid, hi any oratory, or even in their own chambers, show devotion to Her in that representation, which places Her in so touching and singular a manner before mind and heart.

Spain was great at the time when the Supreme Councils of its empire, appeared with all the pomp of power before the very Image.of Our Lady of Good Counsel before which St. Aloysius prayed, and there implored Her assistance, in the discharge of their onerous duties. Spain now, like other Catholic nations, has unfortunately found out, how, in obedience to « progress », to dispense with this and other holy observances, but not to Spain's glory or advantage.

The greatness of that Catholic nation departed with the intensity of its faith. A return to that which she once was, may yet, however, save her, and restore her former proud position amongst the nations.

By Father Dillon