Veritas et Lux

In 1871, France was in the midst of a war with Prussia. The situation was dire, and many feared the Prussian army would soon occupy the region. On the evening of January 17, 1871, four children – Eugène Barbedette (12 years old), his brother Joseph (10), and two young girls, Françoise Richer (11) and Jeanne-Marie Lebossé (9) – saw an apparition of a beautiful lady in the sky above the village. She was described as wearing a blue robe covered with golden stars, a golden crown on her head, and a dark veil.

The Virgin Mary did not speak directly, but a message appeared over her head, written in golden letters that changed and evolved during the apparition. The message read: “But pray, my children. God will answer you in time. My Son allows Himself to be touched.”.

The children’s parents and other villagers joined them in prayer, reciting the Rosary and other prayers. As they prayed, more villagers were able to see the apparition. The apparition lasted for about 3 hours, and as it ended, a white veil gradually covered the figure of the Virgin Mary, and the message disappeared.

A few days after the apparition, news arrived that a ceasefire had been reached, ending the war.

This apparition reminds us to turn to God during times of desperation when we need hope. It emphasizes the importance of prayer during difficult times.