Episode 2245: Our Lady of Consolation

The Story of Our Lady of Consolation

Our Lady of Consolation, also known as Our Lady of the Cincture, is a title given to the Virgin Mary and is associated with her role as a source of comfort and consolation to the faithful. The origins of this devotion are rooted in the Augustinian tradition and have a rich history that spans several centuries.

Origins and Historical Background
The devotion to Our Lady of Consolation dates back to the early 17th century. The story begins in the town of Turin, Italy, with an Augustinian friar named Nicholas of St. Augustine. According to tradition, Friar Nicholas had a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and sought her intercession during a time of personal trial and suffering. He experienced a profound sense of peace and consolation, which he attributed to the Virgin Mary's intercession. This experience led him to promote devotion to Mary under the title of Our Lady of Consolation.

The devotion was further solidified when a confraternity known as the Confraternity of Our Lady of Consolation was established in Turin. The confraternity promoted prayer, charitable works, and devotion to Mary as a source of comfort for those in distress.

The Icon of Our Lady of Consolation
Central to the devotion is the image of Our Lady of Consolation, often depicted as the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus, with both of them wearing a cincture or girdle. The cincture, a symbol of protection and support, represents Mary's maternal care and her role in comforting the afflicted.

One of the most famous representations of Our Lady of Consolation is housed in the Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation in Turin. The icon became a focal point for pilgrims seeking Mary's intercession and comfort. The basilica, built in the 18th century, continues to be a significant pilgrimage site.

Spread of the Devotion
The devotion to Our Lady of Consolation spread beyond Italy, especially among the Augustinian order, which adopted Mary under this title as their patroness. The Augustinians established many churches and shrines dedicated to Our Lady of Consolation around the world, including notable ones in the United States, such as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation in Carey, Ohio.

Our Lady of Consolation and the Augustinian Cincture
A significant aspect of the devotion is the association with the cincture or belt of Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. According to tradition, Saint Monica received a cincture from the Virgin Mary as a sign of her maternal protection and consolation. This cincture was passed down to Saint Augustine and became a symbol of Augustinian devotion.

The Augustinians continue to honor this tradition by wearing the cincture as part of their religious habit, and they promote the wearing of the cincture among the faithful as a sign of devotion to Our Lady of Consolation.

The Role of Our Lady of Consolation
The title "Our Lady of Consolation" emphasizes Mary's role as a source of comfort, solace, and support to those in need. She is invoked particularly in times of sorrow, distress, and uncertainty. Devotees believe that Mary, as a compassionate mother, listens to their prayers and intercedes with her Son, Jesus Christ, to provide comfort and relief.

Conclusion
The devotion to Our Lady of Consolation highlights the compassionate and nurturing aspects of the Virgin Mary. As a source of comfort and consolation, she continues to inspire and support the faithful, offering hope and solace in times of need. The enduring popularity of this devotion, reflected in numerous shrines and churches dedicated to her, attests to the deep spiritual connection that many people feel with Mary under this title.