My grandfather used to tell us stories of his experiences during World War II. His stories never described the battles and operations he went through; he would rather focus on what he was thinking during those events. After every battle and difficult operation, each story had the same conclusion, “For every step I took, I prayed, ‘Our Lady of Victory: Pray for us.’ Every single step.” Since then, “Our Lady of Victory: Pray for us” has been my family’s mantra, and I’m quite glad that it is.
“Wait a minute, the title of this post is “Our Lady of the Rosary”, so why all the talk about Our Lady of Victory?” Well for starters, Our Lady of the Rosary was formerly known as Our Lady of Victory. The history of this title of Our Lady happens in three parts. The initial origin was in 1571 when Pope St. Pius V instituted the annual “Feast of Our Lady of Victory” to commemorate his victory at Lepanto and attribute it to Mary and the Rosary. “Our Lady of Victory: Pray for us” was a common invocation exclaimed during the battles fought at Lepanto. In 1573 Pope Gregory XIII changed the feast’s title to “Feast of the Holy Rosary”. Again in 1960 Pope St. John XXIII changed the title to “Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary”. This feast now takes place on October 7, which is why October is known as the month of the Rosary. So yes, while there are different titles, they all refer to Our Lady.
Our Lady of Victory has a special place in my family’s heart, and I strive to bring her with me wherever I go. In times of struggle I find myself subconsciously repeating the words of my grandfather, “Our Lady of Victory: Pray for us”. Even when things seem to be going just fine, I’ll be surprised to notice this affection that stirs within my heart will manifest itself verbally from my lips without even thinking.
Over the past couple months my love for Our Lady has grown exponentially through praying the Rosary daily, preparing to consecrate myself to her and simply repeating my mantra. As I begin spiritual work under her guidance, I’ll continue to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps. His lifelong dedication to Our Lady continued to sustain him after the war and into his stuggles with failing health until his death in December 2017. His witness inspires me still in seminary, and I know that our love of Our Lady connects us.
Our Lady of Victory - PRAY FOR US!
Domine Nostre a Victoriae - ORA PRO NOBIS!