DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Catholic Church honours the Blessed Virgin Mary with special devotion. From the most ancient times the Blessed Virgin Mary has been honoured with the title of "MOTHER of GOD" whose protection the faithful seek in their dangers and needs. This "special devotion" differs essentially from the "adoration" which is given to the "GOD'S SON" Jesus, and, equally to the "FATHER" and the "HOLY SPIRIT". The feasts dedicated to the "Holy Mother" and the Marian prayer, such as the Rosary, express this devotion to the Virgin Mary.
"Rosary", an epitome of the whole Gospel, means "crown of roses" given to the "Blessed Mother". The Rosary is a prayer to God through His Mother Mary. In 1917 the Blessed Mother appeared to the children of Fatima and declared Herself as "Our Lady of the Rosary". Through her apparitions at Fatima, the "Holy Mother" implored us to turn our hearts back to God by urging each and everyone to pray the Rosary every day to obtain peace in the world. Praying the Rosary has helped and changed thousands of lives. Among all the devotions approved by the Church none has been favored by so many miracles as the devotion of the Rosary.
Fr. Cipriano Bontacchio