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The Most Recent Catholic Tribute Painting by Expressionist Artist Stephen B. Whatley
(Reprinted from the website of the artist.)
The origins of this devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal) date back to 1830, in the Chapel of The Sisters of Charity (now known as The Chapel of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal) in Paris, France, where Sister ( now Saint ) Catherine Laboure received three miraculous visitations from Our Lady informing her that She was giving her a mission.
On November 27, 1830 Sister Catherine saw a vision of Our Lady standing on a globe that the Mother of God explained represented the whole world; especially France that was experiencing great poverty during the aftermath the many wars of the time. Her foot is placed on a serpent, below her representing Satan.
Streaming from rings on Mary's fingers were many rays of light that symbolised the graces she obtains for those who ask. Framing the vision was an inscription,
"O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you"
Mother Mary instructed Sister Catherine to have a medal - now known as the Miraculous Medal - created of this image. She then showed her what should be detailed on the reverse of the medal: 12 stars encircling a large "M" from which arose a Cross, below which are two hearts, representing The Sacred Heart of Jesus and The Immaculate Heart of Mary.
The Blessed Virgin Mary told Sister Catherine that "…Those who wear the medal will receive great graces, especially if they wear it around their neck"
Painting in prayer, the artist embroidered all the elements of the Blessed Virgin Mary's instructions into his painting - with a special intention that the painting should bring light, peace, hope and blessings of healing to those who view it.
'Miraculous Medals' cut to this divine design can be bought from cathedrals, churches & Catholic shops.
A Novena (9 day prayer) to the Miraculous Medal can be see read via this link to the official website of The Chapel of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal in Paris , 140 rue du Bac, Paris, France:
www.chapellenotredamedelamedaillemiraculeuse.com/EN/h5.asp
The work of Stephen B. Whatley has been published in TIME magazine and in numerous periodicals including the Catholic press. His work can be found in collections worldwide and in public collections including the BBC Heritage, London Transport Museum, The Royal Collection, The Tower of London (where there is a permanent walkway of the artist's work at Tower Hill) and London's Westminster Cathedral which staged an exhibition of his Catholic tributes, "Paintings From Prayer" - which included a portrait of Pope Francis - in August 2013.
The Feast Day of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal is celebrated the same day as that of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception: December 8th.
Prayers for peace and miracles of strength & healing during Advent, Christmas, and in the New Year.
Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Oil on canvas,
38 x 24in
Visit the following link for more artwork by the artist: www.stephenbwhatley.com
Visit the following link to read the Catholic Life article: Stephen B. Whatley The Praying Artist
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