About the icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa

About the icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa

Why is the picture dark?

Often referred to as the '' Black Madonna ", the image is of ancient origin, when dark paints were used by artists. The picture of the Mother of God with the Child Jesus on her left arm is done in tempera, covered with a fine woven material and treated with a very fine chalk-like substance.

How old is the holy picture?

Nobody knows for certain, but the colours, technique and composition seem to indicate it as early Christian, Byzantine origin. Recent studies trace it to the 7th or 8th century.

Where do the scars come from?

In 1430 the Shrine in Czestochowa, Poland, was invaded and plundered of its treasures. The bandits removed the holy picture from the chapel and attempted to destroy it with a sword, inflicting notice able scars on the face of our Lady. In restoring the painting these sword slashes were left as reminders of that dreadful desecration the holy image suffered.

Is the Icon actually miraculous?

There are many volumes of miracles recorded which have been attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of Czestochowa. These miracles range from astounding physical healings to spiritual conversions.

A prayer to Our Lady of Czestochowa

O Mary, our dear Lady of Czestochowa, look graciously upon your children in this troubled and sinful world Embrace us all in your loving and Motherly protection. Protect our young from godless ways; assist our dear ones grown old with age to prepare for their journey home; shield our defenceless unborn from the horrors of abortion, and be our strength against all sin. Spare your children from all hatred, discrimination and war. Fill our hearts, our homes and our world with that peace and love which comes only from your Son, whom you so tenderly embrace. O, Queen and Mother, be our comfort and strength!

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen

Compiled by
Fr. Andrew Joachim Dembicki, OSPPE · Pauline Fathers Monastery
"Marian Valley" · Canungra, Qld 4275

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by [Ryszard Majchrzak]