The Miraculous Medal: The Story of Our Lady's Appearances to Saint Catherine Laboure
#4 of 13 in Saints Lives Series
What’s inside...
This story captures the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary to St. Catherine Laboure, leading to the creation of the Miraculous Medal. Despite initial disbelief from the priest, Our Lady appeared again to St. Catherine, requesting the creation of the medals. The book, written by Mary Fabyan Windeatt, renowned as 'the storyteller of the saints', brings this historical event to life, illustrating the realness and relatability of saints through engaging storytelling. This book is especially ideal for young readers in early grades, helping them understand and emulate the virtues of the saints.
Discussion points
Why do you think Our Lady chose to appear to Saint Catherine?
What do you feel is the most important message from the appearances?
How can we apply the lessons from the story to our daily lives?
What qualities do you admire in Saint Catherine, and why?
How does the concept of faith play a role in this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to allow your child to reflect on the events and their meanings.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of the story to enhance understanding.
Encourage your child to express how they would feel in Saint Catherine’s situation to foster empathy.
Relate the virtues exhibited by Saint Catherine, such as courage and humility, to real-life scenarios in your child’s world.
Highlight the significance of faith, hope, and charity discussed in the book and explore ways these virtues can be adopted in everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Faith and perseverance
Explanation: The story illustrates how Saint Catherine Laboure's steadfast faith and perseverance enabled her to overcome challenges and fulfill her mission of creating the Miraculous Medal.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to maintain their beliefs and persist through difficulties, whether in school, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Compassion and service
Explanation: Catherine's compassion is showcased through her dedication to helping those in need, inspired by the messages from Our Lady.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of helping others, whether it be through volunteer work, helping a friend, or supporting family members.
Example Lesson: Humility
Explanation: Despite the significant role she played, Catherine chose to remain humble and did not seek recognition for herself, demonstrating true humility.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of doing good deeds not for praise or reward, but because it's the right thing to do.
Example Lesson: The power of prayer
Explanation: The book highlights how prayer was central to Catherine’s life and how it brought her strength and clarity.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore their own spirituality and use prayer or meditation as a source of comfort and guidance in their lives.
Example Lesson: Courage to follow one’s calling
Explanation: Saint Catherine’s journey exemplifies the courage it takes to follow one's calling, even when faced with uncertainty or adversity.
Real-World Application: Kids can be inspired to pursue their passions and stand firm in their choices, even when others might doubt them.