Our Lady of Laus – Refuge of Sinners.
Our Lady of Laus – The Virgin Mary, Refuge of Sinners -,a deeply moving and spiritually rich Marian apparition that continues to touch hearts centuries later.
“I ask for a church to be built in honor of my Son,
– Our Lady to Benoîte Rencurel
where many will be converted.”
A Hidden Mountain Village, A Heavenly Visitor
Nestled in the serene southern Alps of France lies the quiet hamlet of Laus, an unassuming place that would become the site of one of the most extraordinary and enduring Marian apparitions in the Church’s history. It was in April 1664, as spring awakened the valleys with wildflowers and birdsong, that the Virgin Mary appeared to a 17-year-old shepherdess named Benoîte Rencurel. This simple, devout girl—unlettered but rich in faith—would become the recipient of heavenly messages for over 54 years.
The length and depth of these apparitions are unparalleled. Our Lady came not for a brief moment, but for a lifetime of gentle guidance and maternal presence. The Church, after extensive study and prayer, officially approved these apparitions in 2008, affirming their spiritual fruits and authenticity.
The Virgin in White, A Glimpse of Heaven
The first encounter occurred while Benoîte was tending sheep near a valley called Vallon des Fours. There, she saw a beautiful Lady dressed in radiant white, holding a child in her arms. She did not speak immediately but returned over several days, slowly inviting Benoîte into the mystery of her presence. Eventually, she revealed her identity:
“I am Mary, the Mother of Jesus.
My Son desires that this place be dedicated to reconciliation and healing.”
Later, she would identify herself with a deeply consoling title: “Refuge of Sinners.” This was no coincidence. In Laus, Mary’s entire message centered around calling her children back to God, especially through the healing grace of Confession.
A Sanctuary of Healing and Mercy
The heart of the messages given at Laus can be summed up in one word: Reconciliation. Mary asked that a church be built in honor of her Son, where people would return to the Sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Penance. She guided Benoîte to welcome pilgrims, to console the suffering, and even to encourage priests to offer compassionate, healing confessions.
Over time, Laus became a spiritual hospital for souls. Thousands came seeking forgiveness and healing, and countless miracles were reported—not just physical, but spiritual conversions, inner peace, and restored lives.
Mary also asked for modesty, humility, and a detachment from worldly distractions—a message that resonates more than ever today.
Benoîte Rencurel – A Witness of Persevering Faith
Benoîte, humble and faithful, embraced a life of penance and charity. She suffered many trials, including skepticism, physical illness, and spiritual battles, but remained steadfast. She spent her life guiding pilgrims, praying with them, and even receiving visions of the Passion of Christ, which united her even more closely to Jesus.
She died in 1718, and her cause for beatification is currently open. She is remembered not for theological sophistication, but for her pure heart, deep love, and unwavering obedience to Mary’s call.
A Message for April – Renewal of the Heart 🌸
April, the month when the apparitions began, is a time when nature awakens from its slumber. The mountains around Laus burst into color, and new life quietly announces itself. In the same way, Our Lady of Laus invites us to inner renewal—to allow the springtime of the soul to bloom through grace.
Mary gently reminds us: true healing begins in the heart, in the quiet return to God through Confession, prayer, and reconciliation with others. She does not condemn; she welcomes. She does not accuse; she intercedes. Her arms are open, especially to those who feel furthest from God.
Devotional Practices Inspired by Laus
Those drawn to the spirit of Our Lady of Laus may consider the following devotions:
- Frequent Confession – at least monthly, as a path of spiritual growth.
- Prayers of Reparation – for personal sins and for the conversion of others.
- Meditation on the Passion – as Benoîte did, to unite our sufferings with Christ.
- Hospitality and compassion – being a source of comfort for those in distress, as Benoîte was.
Pilgrims still visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus today, drawn by the same message that echoed through the mountains centuries ago: God’s mercy is always available to those who seek it.
A Prayer to Our Lady of Laus 💧
O Mary, Refuge of Sinners,
you appeared to Benoîte Rencurel with the Child Jesus in your arms,
inviting the world to healing and reconciliation.
Teach us to open our hearts to God’s mercy,
to return often to the Sacrament of Confession,
and to be instruments of peace and healing to others.
Mother of tenderness, wrap us in your mantle
and guide us along the path of holiness.
Amen.
Final Reflection
The apparitions of Our Lady of Laus are not just a historical event—they are a living invitation. Through them, Mary continues to echo the words of her Son: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
In a world burdened by anxiety, conflict, and spiritual dryness, Laus stands as a beacon of mercy. And Mary, in her gentle beauty, still walks among us—always pointing to the One who heals all wounds.
Let us virtually “visit” the Sanctuary of Laus
Embarking on a virtual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lausallows us to immerse ourselves in the serene beauty and profound spirituality of this sacred place. Nestled in the picturesque southern French Alps, the sanctuary stands as a testament to the enduring presence of the Virgin Mary in the life of Benoîte Rencurel, a humble shepherdess who experienced Marian apparitions here from 1664 until her passing in 1718.
A Virtual Tour of the Sanctuary
Imagine standing amidst rolling green hills, with the majestic Alps rising in the distance. The sanctuary complex comprises several chapels, a basilica, and tranquil spaces for reflection and prayer. As we embark on this virtual journey, let’s explore some key sites:
- The Basilica of Our Lady of Laus: This central place of worship, built in response to Mary’s request to Benoîte, invites pilgrims to seek reconciliation and healing. Inside, the atmosphere is one of profound peace, with soft light filtering through stained glass windows depicting scenes from the apparitions.
- The Chapel of the Precious Blood: A place dedicated to the Passion of Christ, encouraging deep contemplation on the sacrifices made for humanity’s salvation.
- The Valley of Fours: The serene location where Benoîte first encountered the beautiful Lady holding the Child Jesus. The lush meadows and gentle slopes evoke a sense of timelessness, allowing pilgrims to connect with the simplicity of Benoîte’s life.
Creating a Prayer Journal Inspired by Benoîte’s Life
Keeping a prayer journal can deepen your spiritual journey, providing a space to reflect on your experiences, prayers, and the insights gained through contemplation. Inspired by Benoîte’s devotion and the messages she received, consider the following prompts for your journal:
- Embracing Humility: Reflect on areas in your life where pride may overshadow humility. How can you emulate Benoîte’s modesty in your daily interactions?
- Seeking Reconciliation: Contemplate relationships that may need healing. Write a prayer asking for the grace to forgive and seek forgiveness, drawing inspiration from the sanctuary’s emphasis on confession and reconciliation.
- Devotion to Prayer: Benoîte spent countless hours in prayer, even amidst her duties. How can you incorporate more intentional prayer into your routine? Outline a plan to dedicate specific times for prayer each day.
- Serving Others: Consider ways you can serve your community, following Benoîte’s example of guiding and comforting pilgrims. Document opportunities to volunteer or offer support to those in need.
- Encountering Mary: Reflect on your personal relationship with the Virgin Mary. Write about moments you have felt her presence or guidance in your life, and compose a prayer seeking her intercession.
Visualizing the Sanctuary and Its Surroundings
To enhance your virtual experience, here is a depiction of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus and its surrounding valley:
Image: The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus nestled in the serene valley, inviting pilgrims to a place of peace and reconciliation.
As you gaze upon this image, allow yourself to be transported to this sacred place. Let the tranquility of the landscape and the sanctity of the sanctuary inspire your prayers and reflections.
Concluding Thoughts
While we may not be able to physically walk the grounds of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laus, this virtual pilgrimage offers an opportunity to connect deeply with its spiritual essence. Through prayerful reflection and journaling, we can draw closer to the heart of Mary’s messages to Benoîte—messages of humility, reconciliation, and unwavering devotion. May this journey enrich your faith and guide you toward a deeper relationship with the Divine.
