Following a decision by the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales, 29th March 2020 was fixed as the date to rededicate England as the Dowry of Mary. This has reaffirmed England’s status as the “Dowry of Mary”, a title dating back to at least the 14th century.
What is the ‘Dowry of Mary’?
It reflects the deep devotion to Mary that existed in medieval England, and the belief that she took a particular protective interest in England’s affairs. The title originated in the Medieval period, when devotion to the Virgin Mary in England was particularly strong. It was believed that England belonged in some special way to Mary, who was seen as the country’s “protectress” and who through her powers of intercession acted as the country’s defender or guardian.
Catholics all over England are being asked to unite their “yes” to that of the Virgin Mary. This was also followed by the “Act of Entrustment of England to the Virgin Mary”, a prayer which draws upon all the acts of surrender and dedication to Our Lady throughout the country’s history.
Our Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Nichols, has also posted a special video about it here: https://youtu.be/WcvL3NxLNJ8 (YouTube).
Unfortunately due to Coronavirus our Pupil Chaplaincy Team couldn’t visit the planned celebration in Westminster Cathedral but you can watch or re-watch the live streaming of the Rededication of England as the Dowry of Mary here: https://www.walsingham.org.uk/rededication
Enjoy and God bless!
On Sunday at the parish church they made a prayer to Our Lady so that She can protect the country of the coronavirus.
The last time it was done was by Richard the second.
It was a long time ago.
Thank you for sharing! I am sure she is looking out for us all ❤️