The rains held off, and the people came.

      From near and far they arrived … families, couples, school children, First Communicants, and Confirmands. Gathering from across Missouri, Illinois, North Carolina, Indiana, Nebraska, and Ohio, members and friends of the Association of the Miraculous Medal arrived at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. They came to show their love and devotion.

      Spiritual Director, Father Kevin McCrackenc C.M., led the pilgrims in a prayerful procession. With rosaries in hand, the congregation strolled along the stately quarter-mile Rosary Walk to Mary’s grotto.

      A heartfelt swell of voices lifted prayers and songs to Our Lady as thousands of petitions submitted by Association members were laid at her feet. A wreath of tiny silk roses represented the spiritual presence of these AMM members and supporters.

      Fr. Kevin and Deacon Rob Huff offered words of inspiration about Mary’s queenship in heaven and on earth. She is an ever-present and unfailing teacher.

      While many have attended the Shrine’s May Procession for many years, others were first-time visitors. 

     Karen and Mario Anaya were among these. “We heard about the Shrine from my mom,” Karen said. “She had been looking for Miraculous Medals and learned about the May Procession on the AMM website.” The couple traveled eight hours, from Omaha, with their three young children, along with Karen’s parents and another family. “It’s so beautiful here,” Karen shared following the ceremony. “We are really glad we came.”