Our Lady of Laus
One of the lesser-known yet deeply touching Marian apparitions is that of Our Lady of Laus, located in the southeastern part of France. This series of apparitions began in 1664 and continued for over 54 years, making it the longest of the recognized Marian apparitions. The visionary, Benoîte (Benedicta) Rencurel, was a humble shepherdess who first encountered the Blessed Virgin Mary in the valley of Saint-Etienne-le-Laus, which would later be known as Laus.
The story goes that one day, while tending her sheep, Benoîte saw a beautiful lady holding a child on her arm, standing on a rock. At first, Benoîte thought she was seeing a physical person and attempted to run away, but she was inexplicably drawn to the lady. The Blessed Virgin introduced herself as Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and expressed her desire for the site to become a place of conversion, prayer, and healing. Mary instructed Benoîte to tell the local priest to build a church on the site and to encourage people to come in procession to receive the graces promised to them.
The messages of Our Lady of Laus focused on the importance of repentance, the conversion of sinners, and the power of the Sacrament of Penance. The apparition site became known for miraculous healings and conversions, attracting pilgrims seeking Mary’s intercession. Despite initial skepticism, the apparition was recognized by the local bishop, and in 2008, it received formal recognition from the Vatican, affirming its significance and impact on the faithful.
Today, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus remains a place of pilgrimage, inviting visitors to experience the peace and grace that have drawn people there for centuries. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of Mary’s intercession and her role as a compassionate mother guiding her children towards a closer relationship with God.
Reflecting on the story of Our Lady of Laus invites us to consider the ways in which Mary reaches out to us, inviting us into a deeper relationship with her Son. It encourages us to open our hearts to conversion and to seek God’s mercy through the sacraments, reminding us of the profound impact that faith and devotion can have on our lives.
Books and online ressources
To deepen your understanding of the apparition of Our Lady of Laus and Marian devotion in general, a mix of books and online resources can offer both scholarly insights and personal reflections.
Here’s a curated list to guide you:
Books
“The Lady of Laus” by René Laurentin and Patrick Sbalchiero
This book, authored by two respected figures in Marian studies, provides an in-depth look into the historical, theological, and devotional aspects of the apparitions of Our Lady of Laus. It explores the life of the visionary Benoîte Rencurel and the impact of the apparitions on the Catholic Church.
“Marian Apparitions: The Bible of Mary” by Donal Anthony Foley
Offering a comprehensive overview of Marian apparitions, this book situates Our Lady of Laus within the broader context of Marian encounters across the globe. It’s an excellent resource for those seeking to understand the significance of Marian apparitions in the life of the Church.
“Encountering Mary: From La Salette to Medjugorje” by Sandra L. Zimdars-Swartz
This scholarly work analyzes several major Marian apparitions, including lesser-known ones like Laus. It discusses the cultural and religious implications of these apparitions and provides a thoughtful examination of the phenomena of visionary experiences.
Online Resources
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus Official Website
https://www.sanctuaire-notredamedulaus.com
The sanctuary’s official website is an invaluable resource for those looking to make a virtual pilgrimage or planning a visit. It offers historical background, visitor information, and details on the spiritual activities available at the site.
The Mary of Nazareth International Project
https://www.maryofnazareth.com/
This comprehensive online resource offers articles, videos, and reflections on Marian apparitions worldwide, including Our Lady of Laus. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone interested in Marian devotion.
EWTN Global Catholic Network
EWTN offers a vast library of articles, documentaries, and programs on Marian apparitions and devotions. Their content spans both historical accounts and theological reflections, suitable for a wide audience.
Exploring these books and online resources will not only enrich your knowledge of Our Lady of Laus but also deepen your relationship with Mary and her son, Jesus Christ. Whether you’re drawn to scholarly analysis or spiritual nourishment, there’s a wealth of material available to support your journey of faith and devotion.
Sanctuaire de Laus en France video
Let us pray with Mary, the Holy Mother of Jesus, Mother of ALL
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