Episode 2383: Our Lady Queen of Angels

Our Lady of the Angels is a title given to the Virgin Mary in her role as the Queen of Angels. This title reflects the belief in her unique relationship with the angels and her special place in Heaven as their queen. The devotion to Our Lady of the Angels is particularly significant in the context of various apparitions, churches, and feast days dedicated to her under this title.

Historical Context
The title "Our Lady of the Angels" has been venerated since the early centuries of Christianity. It is rooted in the belief that Mary, as the Mother of God, holds a unique and exalted position in Heaven, surpassing even the angels in grace and closeness to God. This title also emphasizes her role as a powerful intercessor and protector for the faithful.

Apparitions and Devotions
One of the most well-known apparitions associated with Our Lady of the Angels occurred in Costa Rica. In 1635, a young indigenous girl named Juana Pereira found a small statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus on a rock. This statue, known as "La Negrita," is believed to have miraculous properties. The statue repeatedly returned to the same spot after being moved, leading to the construction of a basilica at the site. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, Costa Rica, is now a major pilgrimage site, and the feast day of Our Lady of the Angels is celebrated on August 2.

Churches and Feast Days
Numerous churches and religious institutions worldwide are dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels. One notable example is the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi, Italy. This basilica, built around the tiny Porziuncola chapel, holds significant importance for the Franciscan Order. It is here that St. Francis of Assisi received his divine calling and established his religious community.

The feast day of Our Lady of the Angels, celebrated on August 2, is also known as the Feast of the Portiuncula. This day is associated with the Portiuncula Indulgence, a plenary indulgence that St. Francis of Assisi obtained from Pope Honorius III. The indulgence grants the remission of temporal punishment for sins to those who visit the Porziuncola chapel or any Franciscan church worldwide under specific conditions.

Significance and Symbolism
Our Lady of the Angels symbolizes Mary's closeness to the angels and her role as their queen. She is often depicted in art and iconography surrounded by angels, emphasizing her heavenly glory and intercessory power. This title also highlights Mary's maternal care and protection over the faithful, as she guides them towards her Son, Jesus Christ.

The veneration of Our Lady of the Angels is a testament to the deep and abiding love and respect that Catholics hold for the Virgin Mary. Through her intercession, the faithful seek her guidance, protection, and assistance in their spiritual journey. Her title as Queen of Angels underscores her unique role in the heavenly realm and her powerful intercession on behalf of humanity.