July, 2020

Our Lady of Safety

When the Germans invaded Holland in 1940 the native Dutch were forced to flee and scatter throughout the country-side. The Germans hunted for anyone who was considered a threat to their occupation. Several hundred young people made their way to the village of Overloon in southeast Netherlands. Local villagers organized safe hiding for the refugees. The young men who were in hiding from the Germans sought the support of Our Lady for safety. They pledged to spread devotion to her should they be delivered from the hands of their pursuers. Overloon became a safe harbor for the Dutch refugees and Our Lady was given great credit. After the war and the liberation of the Netherlands, those who sought safety in Overloon gathered funds together and built a shrine there to Our Lady of Safety.

Prayer to Our Lady of Safety

Mother of Jesus, be our protector and defender against all that is harmful or evil. Bring our needs before Almighty God, that we may be surrounded by God’s Holy Angels, and give us the grace to conquer every danger and overcome all that would threaten our health and well being.

Be for us light in times of darkness, strength when we are weak, wisdom in our confusion, healing in times of illness, and courage to work through life’s problems and difficulties. Give us joy when we are sad, bread to feed our hunger, and eternal life to defeat the power of death.

Virgin Mary, guide our life-journey, so that we may always walk safely together with you and your Divine Son, Jesus Christ in God’s loving friendship. Amen.