Description
Our Lady of Good Counsel and the shrine at Genazzano
Our Lady of Good Counsel is a Catholic title of Mary closely associated with the Augustinian sanctuary at Genazzano, Italy. The church has been entrusted to the Augustinians since the fourteenth century, and its Marian image became a focus of pilgrimage after the events traditionally dated to April 25, 1467. The feast is observed on April 26. The title invites Christians to seek wisdom in prayer, listen to the Gospel, and place decisions under the guidance of Christ.
Tender faces and the prayer Mater Boni Consilii
Mary inclines her veiled head toward the Child, whose arm encircles her neck while his other hand rests against her chest. Their faces meet in an intimate exchange characteristic of Marian images centered on the bond between Mother and Son. Latin inscriptions around the halos identify the devotion: Mater Boni Consilii, ora pro nobis, and Jesus, her Son. A green, star-patterned mantle, warm red and ocher garments, and the gold field frame the figures.
For discernment, families, and difficult decisions
The icon is suited to prayer before an important choice, vocational discernment, family conversation, study, or pastoral responsibility. It can be placed in a home prayer corner, counseling office, school, parish room, or chapel. Devotion to Our Lady of Good Counsel asks Mary's intercession so that judgment may be formed by truth, charity, and responsibility; it does not replace careful thought, sound advice, or professional help.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, with direct printing and decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included.