An initiative of the Mary of Nazareth Association November 8 – Our Lady of the Pond (France, 1531) – Blessed Elisabeth of the Trinity One of the oldest Marian pilgrimages in France The church of Our Lady of Marillais, on the outskirts of Saint-Florent-le-Vieil (France) is a popular, long-time pilgrimage site, a highly spiritual place, and one of the oldest Marian shrines in the country. This region along the Loire River was evangelized by Saint Maurille (d.453), one of Saint Martin’s followers. During one of Maurille’s visits to Saint-Florent-le-Vieil in 430, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him and asked, on behalf of her Son, that her birth be celebrated there on September 8th. Our Lady’s apparition was the prelude to the decision made the following year by the Council of Ephesus (431), under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to recognize that the Virgin Mary was also the Mother of God. Thus the feast of the Nativity of Mary emanated from a direct request from heaven. As for the pilgrimage of Our Lady of Marillais, it is one of the oldest Marian pilgrimages in France. The Mary of Nazareth Team www.mariedenazareth.com Let’s pray together Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death. Amen.