Devotion to the Virgin under the title of Our Lady of the Snows is an early Marian devotion. Read here to learn how this feast is connected to a miraculous snowfall in Rome around 352 A.D. The magnificent Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome is the “seat of devotion to Our Lady of the Snows”.
Snow often falls gently and creates an ambience of quiet peace. In linking my thoughts of snow to Our Lady, I think of the gentle and soft caresses that she sends us through her loving prayers. The Mother of God does not force herself upon us, but rather waits for us to invite her into our lives. She waits quietly and patiently while maintaining a protective maternal gaze on her children.
I have one last comment to share with you about Our Lady of the Snows. During the feast day Mass at the Church of St. Mary Major on August 5th, beautiful white rose petals fall from the ceiling of the basilica in honor of Our Lady. The petals shower the sanctuary in remembrance of that miraculous snowfall almost 1700 years ago.