The apparition of Our Lady of Trois-Épis (II)

When the vision disappeared, the blacksmith became terribly frightened, and on reaching the village, he said nothing, in disobedience of the Lady’s wishes. He went inside the market, purchased a sack of wheat and started to adjust it on the back of his mount. But the sack of wheat became uncommonly heavy and could not be lifted. Even with the help of others, the sack could not be moved.

It was then that he remembered the words of the Virgin, and realizing that the weight of the sack was a signal to him, he loudly shared the message that had been entrusted to him. Many people heard the message spoken with sincerity and took it to heart, resolving to do better in the future. When he had finished telling of his experience and the message given to him, he easily lifted the sack of wheat, secured it to his mount, and left for home.

During the summer of the same year, a wooden chapel was built on the site of the apparition. The Pilgrims made their way there and miracles were reported. Eventually, this little church was enlarged with the addition of other buildings. For many years, various religious Orders conducted services for the many pilgrims who came from all parts of the country, especially on May 3, the anniversary of the apparition. For the 519th anniversary in 2010, special services were held.

Source: www.saintalphonsa.com