An Immense Fountain of Grace

Saint Mary Magdalene de’Pazzi joined the Discalced Carmelites at Santa Maria degli Angeli in Florence. While seriously ill, a series of mystical experiences of a rare intensity began: the “Forty Days”, lasting until July 5, 1584. These ecstasies lasted from two to three hours during which time she was able to speak. She received the stigmata, various visions, moral and physical participation in the Passion of Christ, revelations centered on Christ suffering, etc. Her visions of the Virgin are diverse and rich on both theological and symbolical levels. “It seemed like I could see the Blessed Virgin in Paradise seated on the right-hand side of Jesus; I thought I could hear her say to me while smiling: “You do not take account of the gift that you received the day when you took the veil.” This gift from Jesus was the Blessed Virgin’s purity. Mary looked so beautiful that my words cannot explain her to you.” (...) “I saw two fountains spouting forth from the Virgin Mary’s womb, one of milk and the other of blood. The milk was spread on all the blessed souls of Paradise. (...) The blood was spread on all mankind.” (...) “I also heard the Virgin pronounce this verse: “My heart is stirred by a noble theme; I address my poem to the King” (Ps 45:1). The word coming from her mouth was Jesus, to whom she gave birth in this world for us. And the Virgin was speaking to the King, i.e. to our Heavenly Father. Then I saw an immense fountain, spouting sprays of water, spreading them everywhere in the world and sending forth torrents of grace.” Saint Mary Magdalene is depicted in art as a Carmelite with the Instruments of the Passion kneeling before the Holy Trinity. Christ crowns her with thorns, the Virgin gives her roses. She may also be shown receiving the Blessed Sacrament from Jesus; receiving a white veil from the Virgin Mary; being presented to or receiving a ring from Jesus; crowned with thorns and embracing a cross, with rays falling on her from a monstrance; or with flames issuing from her breast.