The Rosary helps to win an impossible battle
The Reformation’s aftermath left the Christian world open to invasion. The Turkish Empire took advantage of this weakness in October of 1571. After invading Cyprus and taking 15,000 Christians captive, the Turkish army greatly outnumbered the Christian European forces. It seemed like all hope was lost.
Pope Pius V persuaded Italy and Spain to fight against the Turks. The pope also commanded all Catholics to pray the Rosary. Churches across Western Europe were filled with the faithful praying for an unlikely victory.
On October 7, Don Juan of Austria led his 80,000 person fleet against the Turks’ 120,000. The Christians nearly lost, but Don Juan regrouped and won. The Christian captives were recovered and set free.
The pope had a vision of the victory before news of it had reached Rome, reportedly waking up in the middle of the night and shouting, “The Christian fleet is victorious!”
In recognition of this extraordinary victory, Pope Pius V declared a feast day for Our Lady of Victories. This was eventually changed to the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, celebrated on October 7.
It’s a time for all Catholics to remember the power of the Rosary.
If these prayers have saved Christendom from certain invasion in the past, surely they can save us again from the battles our world currently face and will face in the future. So pick up your spiritual sword and join the fight 😎👊
3 окт 2024
