“Make this known to all my people.”
Written by Chris Austgen
Every year on September 10, La Salette communities around the world unite in prayer and mission to celebrate International La Salette Laity Day. This day, established by the General Chapter of the Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette, is a time of global communion for La Salette religious, laity, and all those touched by the message of reconciliation.
On September 19, 1846, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to two children, Maximin Giraud and Mélanie Calvat, on a mountaintop near La Salette, France. She came not in power and glory, but in tears—calling her children back to her Son through prayer, conversion, and faithfulness. Her message, though given in a particular time and place, echoes across the ages: a mother’s plea for reconciliation, hope, and healing.
International La Salette Laity Day, observed nine days before the anniversary of the apparition, invites us to prepare our hearts and communities to once again receive this message with fresh devotion. It is a time to reflect on the universal call to reconciliation that transcends borders, cultures, and languages. Whether in the mountains of France, the parishes of the Philippines, the missions of Angola, or the neighborhoods of the United States, the spirit of La Salette is alive in those who live her message: “If they are converted…”
For La Salette Laity, this day also affirms our shared vocation as part of the La Salette family. Rooted in prayer, study, and service, we walk alongside the Missionaries and Sisters of Our Lady of La Salette, carrying her message into the heart of the world.
We are invited on this day to:
* Pray for peace and reconciliation in our own lives, families, and nations.
* Renew our commitment to conversion and compassion.
* Share the story of La Salette with someone new.
* Support La Salette missions and ministries around the globe.
As we mark International La Salette Day, may we be renewed in our mission to “make this known to all [her] people.” Through our witness and our works of mercy, may the tears of our Mother bear fruit in a world longing for hope.
Our Lady of La Salette, Reconciler of Sinners,
pray without ceasing for us who have recourse to you
