The conversion of Ratisbonne.
January 20, 1842.
This is the date of the conversion of the well known French Jew, Alphonse Ratisbonne, while he visited the Church of Sant’ Andrea Delle Fratte, not far from the Spanish Steps in Rome. The image of the Virgin (above) was painted according to Ratisbonne’s description as to how the Immaculate Conception appeared in the apparition he witnessed, wherein she instantaneously revealed the truths of the faith to the young man.
Ratisbonne’s conversion was the direct result of wearing the Miraculous Medal and reciting daily the Memorare. Of course, there were many other friends privately praying with him, and one man even offered his life for the conversion of the agnostic Jew, dying the day before Ratisbonne’s conversion. It is a wonderful story, go here for the details.
The Immaculate Conception - the Gate of Heaven and House of God! O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!
January 20th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
This is a beautiful story Terry, and my favourite of all feasts of the Blessed Virgin is the Immaculate Conception. What a beautiful gift of love to world God gave us when He created His Blessed Mother. She really is the Cause of our Joy!
January 20th, 2008 at 7:33 pm
Amazing. We both covered the conversion of Ratisbonne today. Are we on the same page or what?