What Is the Story of the Infant Jesus of Prague?

By Anna Duncan

The Infant Jesus of Prague is a famous statue of the baby Jesus located in the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague, Czech Republic. This statue has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the 16th century.

Origin of the Statue

The story behind the creation of the Infant Jesus of Prague begins with a Spanish princess named Maria Manriquez de Lara. She was given a statue of the baby Jesus by her mother-in-law, who had received it as a wedding gift. Maria was very devoted to this statue and prayed to it regularly.

When Maria’s husband died, she decided to give the statue to a Carmelite monastery in Prague. She believed that this would be a good way to honor her husband’s memory and bring comfort to those in need.

Miracles Attributed to the Statue

After the statue arrived at the monastery, many miraculous events were reported. People claimed that their prayers were answered after visiting the statue, and many healings were attributed to its presence.

In one famous story, a man named Don Juan Manriquez de Lara (who was related to Maria) was imprisoned for his participation in an uprising against King Ferdinand II. While he was in jail, he saw an apparition of the Infant Jesus of Prague who told him that he would be released from prison soon. Sure enough, Don Juan was released not long after this vision.

Throughout history, many other miracles have been attributed to the Infant Jesus of Prague. It has become known as a powerful symbol of hope and healing for people all over the world.

The Appearance of the Statue

The Infant Jesus of Prague is depicted as a small child with his right hand raised in blessing while holding a globus cruciger (a cross-bearing orb) in his left hand. He wears an ornate robe and crown, both made from precious metals and jewels.

The statue is approximately 19 inches tall and is made of wood, wax, and plaster. It has been restored several times over the centuries but still retains much of its original charm and beauty.

Celebrations and Devotions

The Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Every year on May 27th, a special celebration is held to honor the Infant Jesus of Prague. This celebration includes a procession through the streets of Prague, as well as special Masses and devotions at the church.

In addition to this annual celebration, there are many other devotions dedicated to the Infant Jesus of Prague. Many people keep small replicas of the statue in their homes or wear medals depicting it as a way to show their devotion.

Conclusion

The Infant Jesus of Prague is a beloved symbol of hope and healing for people all over the world. Its rich history and many reported miracles have made it an important part of religious tradition for centuries. Whether you are a devout Catholic or simply interested in learning more about religious history, this statue is definitely worth exploring further.