In the year 1571, Christendom faced an imminent threat: The Ottoman Empire, known for their skill in the art of war, now stood at the threshold of the Christian World. This empire was known to be ruthless, and was at the verge of total control of the West.
Pope Pius V, in the interest of safeguarding the Christian people, assembled leaders from the known Christian World. This assembly came to be known as the “Holy League” comprising Naples, Sardinia, Venice, Genoa, Savoy, the Knights Hospitallers, and the Holy See.
It was also the same Pope who ordered that the faithful should flock to all the Churches in Rome. He mandated that these churches be opened day and night to allow the faithful to pray for victory to be given to the Holy League. And so, the faithful came in droves. Armed with faith, they stormed heaven with unceasing prayers. Specifically, the Holy Rosary, in accord with the Holy Father’s mandate.
Then came that fateful day, 07 October 1571. As the whole of Christendom was on their knees praying the Holy Rosary, the Holy League faced the Ottoman Empire, who were coming from their Naval Base in Lepanto, on the Gulf of Patras. To the surprise of the Ottoman Empire, the Holy League emerged victorious! Although they were outnumbered, they vanquished the Ottomans, thus allowing Christendom to thrive and flourish in the West.
This Naval Victory was widely attributed to Our Lady, whose intercession was called upon on the day of battle. When news of their victory reached Rome, the Holy Father instituted the Feast of Our Lady of Victory, calling to mind the assistance given by Our Lady to her children in their time of need. In 1573, Pope Gregory XIII changed the title to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary: the title given to her who was called upon by the praying of the Holy Rosary.
The Battle of Lepanto is a reminder of the immense power of prayer. When life seems overwhelming, and you feel helpless at the sight of all that awaits you, turn to Our Blessed Mother, trusting that just as she came to the aid of the Christian People during the Battle of Lepanto, she will not forsake you at your hour of need.