On January 24, the Church celebrates Our Lady of Peace, a Marian devotion that highlights the figure of the Virgin Mary as Queen of Peace. This devotion began to gain relevance in the 7th century, when the Virgin appeared to the archbishop of Toledo, Saint Ildefonso, who received a cloak as a sign of the peace that Mary could grant to the faithful. This event was the beginning of a tradition that has lasted to this day.
Throughout history, the Virgin Mary has been recognized for her intercession in times of conflict and despair, being a beacon of hope for those seeking peace both in the world and in their hearts. One of the key moments in the history of the devotion to Our Lady of Peace occurred in the year 1085, when King Alfonso VI reconquered Toledo and, as a sign of reconciliation with the Muslims, the cathedral was dedicated to Our Lady under this title.
January 24th not only commemorates peace between peoples, but also the inner peace that can only be achieved with the maternal help of the Virgin Mary. Today, the cult of Our Lady of Peace has spread to different parts of the world, such as in El Salvador, where Our Lady under this title is the country’s patron saint.
In Rome, the Prelatic Church of Opus Dei, dedicated to Our Lady of Peace, also invites us to reflect on the healing power of Our Lady. The remains of St. Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer rest there, who promoted this devotion as a means to seek peace in all aspects of life.
Today, on this feast day, we are called to seek reconciliation with God, with others and with ourselves, trusting in the intercession of the Virgin Mary to achieve lasting peace. May this celebration inspire us to be instruments of peace in the world, beginning with peace in our hearts.
