November is always exciting as it heralds inflection - the fast approaching coming of Christ at Christmas and a chance for personal change and resolve in the New Year. Tied in are some special reminders like the feast of the Miraculous Medal which is commemorated on the 27 November and offers special reflection.

We, at St. Andrew’s, are very fortunate as we are the only church in Mumbai that has this special devotional service. The Miraculous Medal, also known as the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, originated with St. Catherine Labouré following her reported vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

While many come for this devotion, few appreciate the faith intrinsic to the story of St. Catherine Labouré. In an attempt to enlighten pilgrims in this Year of Faith, Misson SONshine arranged a short viewing of the story of Saint Catherine Labouré, Catherine and the Miraculous Medal, on 26 November.

The response was truly overwhelming. One of the devotees present shared the following testimony: She was barren and wished to have a child. After trying all means of human intervention, her mother-in-law suggested she attend the devotion to the Miraculous Medal at St. Andrew Church. She was rewarded by being able to conceive. For paucity of space, the story is kept brief, but this has not stopped this pilgrim from continuing her devotion for the last 45 years even though she does not reside in the Parish.

The chapel in which St. Catherine experienced her visions is located at the mother house of the Daughters of Charity in Paris. The incorrupt body of the saint is interred in the chapel, which continues to receive daily visits from Catholic pilgrims even today.