Our Lady
Our Lady of Aparecida
Title of the Blessed Virgin Mary · Feast October 12
Mary venerated under the title of the small dark image of the Immaculate Conception found by fishermen in the Paraíba River, principal patroness of Brazil.
Origin
In 1717 three fishermen drew from the river a broken terracotta statue of Our Lady, after which their nets filled to overflowing; devotion spread swiftly, and the great Basilica of Aparecida is today one of the largest Marian shrines in the world.
Why it matters
The title honors Mary's nearness to the poor and humble, who under her patronage as the Immaculate Conception draws a whole nation to her Son.
Feast day
October 12