Our Lady of Banneux: Mary, Blessed Virgin of the Poor

“The poor today – and there are many ways of being poor! – feel at home in Banneux. They come here to find comfort, courage, hope, union with God in their affliction. I encourage the pilgrims who come here to pray to her, who, always and everywhere in the Church, reflects the face of the Mercy of God.”


Pope John Paul II proclaimed these words during his visit to Banneux, in reference to Our Blessed Mother, the Virgin of the Poor. Today, January 15, marks the anniversary of the first apparition of Our Blessed Mother in Banneux. Mary, Blessed Virgin of the Poor, would appear a total of 8 times over the course of two months, bringing a message of prayer and peace.

Our Lady of Banneux: The First Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Second Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Third Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Fourth Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Fifth Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Sixth Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Seventh Apparition

Our Lady of Banneux: The Eight Apparition

Today, we pray to Our Blessed Mother, Mary, Virgin of the Poor:

Blessed Virgin of the Poor, lead us to Jesus, Source of grace.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, save all nations.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, relieve the sick.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, alleviate suffering.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, pray for each one of us.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, we believe in you.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, believe in us.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, we will pray hard.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, bless us.
Blessed Virgin of the Poor, Mother of the Saviour Mother of God, we thank You.

Mary Virgin of the Poor, You lead us to Jesus, source of grace, and you come to alleviate our suffering.
We implore you with confidence: Help us to folow your Son with generosity, and to belong to Him unreservedly.
Help us to welcome the Holy Spirit Who guides and sanctifies us.
Obtain us the grace to look like Jesus everyday more, so that our life will glorify the Father and contribute to the salvation of all.
Amen.