The Legend of the Infant of Prague
The Infant of Prague is a famous religious statue of the child Jesus located in the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague, Czech Republic. This revered statue has a fascinating history and is associated with miraculous powers and countless stories of answered prayers.
The Origin
The origins of the Infant of Prague date back to the 16th century. The statue is believed to have been created in Spain, possibly by a monk or a nun who was inspired by devotion to the child Jesus. It was later gifted to Maria Manriquez de Lara, a Spanish princess who married into the Bohemian royal family.
In 1628, Maria’s daughter, Polyxena von Lobkowicz, brought the statue with her when she married into the Lobkowicz family in Prague. It was during this time that the legend surrounding this miraculous image began to take shape.
Legend and Miracles
According to legend, while traveling through Bohemia, Princess Polyxena’s carriage got stuck in muddy terrain near a small town. Unable to continue their journey, she prayed fervently for help.
Miraculously, at that moment, a young boy appeared and offered his assistance. He not only helped free the carriage but also vanished without a trace afterward.
Grateful for his help, Polyxena invited him to her wedding as an honored guest. However, he never showed up. A few days later, she received a package containing a small wooden statue of the child Jesus – The Infant of Prague – along with a note saying that it was a gift from her mysterious helper.
Since then, numerous miracles have been attributed to this statue. The faithful believe that praying before it brings about divine intervention and helps fulfill their wishes and intentions.
The Statue
The Infant of Prague is displayed in an ornate glass case above the main altar in the Church of Our Lady Victorious. The statue is made of wax and stands about 47 centimeters tall. It is adorned with a royal robe and a golden crown, symbolizing the kingship of Christ.
Devotion to the Infant Jesus
The Infant of Prague has become a symbol of devotion to the child Jesus around the world. Many Catholics have adopted this devotion and pray to the Infant for various intentions, such as healing, protection, guidance, and blessings.
Devotional Practices
- Wearing a scapular or medal depicting the Infant of Prague.
- Lighting candles and placing them before an image or statue of the Infant.
- Reciting special prayers or novenas dedicated to the Infant.
- Donating clothing or other necessities to those in need as acts of charity.
The Feast Day
Every year on May 27th, a feast day is celebrated in honor of the Infant of Prague. This day is marked by special Masses, processions, and devotional activities. Pilgrims from all over the world travel to Prague to pay their respects and seek spiritual solace.
In conclusion, the Legend of the Infant of Prague continues to captivate believers with its tales of divine intervention and miraculous occurrences. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs, this story serves as a reminder that faith can bring hope and comfort during times of difficulty.