Feast of Our Lady of Mercy

Also known as: Our Lady of Ransom
Memorial: 24 September
Profile: Commemorates the foundation of the Mercedarian Order and the apparition of Our Lady of Ransom In this appearance she carried two bags of coins for use in ransoming Christians imprisoned by Moors. On 10 August 1218, the Mercedarian Order was legally constituted at Barcelona by King James of Aragon, and was approved by Pope Gregory IX on 17 January 1235. The Mercedarians celebrated their institution on the Sunday nearest to 1 August because it was on 1 August 1218 that the Blessed Virgin showed Saint Peter Nolasco the white habit of the Order. This custom was approved by the Congregation of Rites on 4 April 1615. On 22 February 1696 it was extended to the entire Latin Church, and the date changed to 24 September.
Patronage: Barcelona Spain, people named Clemency, Mercedes, Mercedez or Mercy
Additional Information: Catholic Encyclopedia: Mercedarians
Catholic Encyclopedia: Feast of Our Lady of Mercy
New Catholic Dictionary: Mercedarians
Patron Saints Index: Blessed Virgin Mary
Patron Saints Index: Saint Peter Nolasco
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