The Lady of Palestine
Deir Rafat
35 kilometers
East of Jerusalem
A Sanctuary
80 years
Have passed
Since its foundation
An extended hand
To bless the land
The Queen of Palestine
the earthly homeland of Jesus
and his mother Mary
Walls and ceiling
decorated with the first words
of the Ave Maria.
Hail Mary
Full of Grace
Cherubs bearing ribbons
on which are written in 280 languages,
the words of Gabriels greeting
History and origins of our Lady of Palestine shrine
The Shrine of Our Lady of Palestine, also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of the Mount, is a significant religious site located in the Holy Land, specifically in the region of Palestine. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and serves as a pilgrimage destination for many Catholics and other Christian visitors.
Early Beginnings: The origins of the shrine can be traced back to the early Christian period, where devotion to Mary was already developing among Christians in the region. However, the specific site associated with Our Lady of Palestine began to gain prominence much later.
The Franciscan Influence: The Franciscans have played a crucial role in the preservation of Christian sites in the Holy Land since the 13th century. They established a presence in Palestine with the aim of promoting pilgrimage and protecting the local Christian heritage. The shrine’s association with the Franciscans has helped in its development and recognition.
Establishment of the Sanctuary: The modern shrine began to take shape in the early 20th century, particularly after the establishment of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in 1847. The sanctuary was officially recognized as a place of pilgrimage in the mid-20th century, coinciding with a renewed interest in Marian devotion.
Pilgrimages and Devotion: Devotion to Our Lady of Palestine has attracted pilgrims from various regions, particularly during the major Marian feast days. The shrine symbolizes hope and consolation for many Christians, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges faced in the region.
Cultural and Ecumenical Significance: The shrine not only serves as a religious center but also as a gathering place for various Christian communities in Palestine, reflecting the region’s diverse heritage. It stands as a symbol of peace and unity in a context often marked by conflict.
Recent Developments: In recent years, the shrine has seen improvements and expansions to accommodate the growing number of visitors and to enhance the spiritual experience offered to pilgrims. It remains an essential part of the religious landscape in the Holy Land.
Conclusion
The Shrine of Our Lady of Palestine has a rich history that intertwines devotion, cultural heritage, and the ongoing narrative of Christians in the region. It serves as a testament to the enduring faith of many and the important role of Marian devotion in the spiritual lives of Christians in Palestine and beyond.
A prayer
O Mary Immaculate,
gracious Queen of Heaven and of Earth,
behold us prostrate before thy exalted throne.
Full of confidence in thy goodness and in thy boundless power,
we beseech thee to turn a pitying glance upon Palestine,
which, more than any other country, belongs to thee,
since thou hast graced it with thy birth,
thy virtues and thy sorrows,
and from there hast given the Redeemer to the world.
Remember that there especially
thou wast constituted our tender Mother,
the dispenser of graces.
Watch, therefore, with special protection
over thy native country,
dispel from it the shades of error,
for it was there that the Son of Eternal Justice shone.
Bring about the speedy fulfillment of the promise,
which issued from the lips of thy Divine Son,
that there should be one fold and one Shepherd.
Obtain for us all that we may serve the Lord
in sanctity and justice during all the days of our life,
so that, by the merits of Jesus and with thy motherly aid,
we may pass at last from this earthly Jerusalem
to the splendors of the heavenly one.
Amen.
Read more:
The latin patriarchate of Jerusalem
