“Our Lady of the Rosary” (2 panels)
In commemoration of the Battle of Lepanto on October 7, 1571
Photos from the Mary Garden at the Passionist Monastery in Jamaica, NY
©️2021 by Gloria M. Chang
From the Liturgy of the Hours for Our Lady of the Rosary:
This commemorative feast was established by Saint Pius V on the anniversary of the naval victory won by the Christian fleet at Lepanto. The victory was attributed to the help of the holy Mother of God whose aid was invoked through praying the rosary. The celebration of this day invites all to meditate upon the mysteries of Christ, following the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary who was so singularly associated with the incarnation, passion and glorious resurrection of the Son of God.
Captains in the Captain
The “captain of the ship on land and sea” refers to Pope Pius V, head of the Church, and Don Juan of Austria, commander of the Christian naval forces. Traditionally imagined as a ship at sea, the Church carries her children safely to their heavenly homeland. On a literal level, Pope Pius V prayed the Rosary on land in Rome, and Don Juan of Austria and his men prayed the Rosary aboard their ships at sea.
“Captain” is singular in this tercet because the two “captains” prayed as one man, one Church, and one Body of Christ. Ultimately, the captain is Christ himself, the supreme intercessor.
Our Lady of Victory
The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary was originally named for Our Lady of Victory. In times of distress, prayer to Our Lady unites us to the source of peace and strength.
By waiting and by calm you shall be saved,
Isaiah 30:15
in quiet and in trust shall be your strength.
The captain of the ship on land and sea
Hailed the Queen of Vict’ry on bended knee.
Ave, Our Lady of the Rosary!