As the back-to-school season nears, we are reminded of the importance of praying for students, educators, and families who are preparing for new beginnings, changes, and challenges.

Perhaps a child or grandchild is going off to college for the first time. Maybe there is a beloved teacher, principal, director, or religious educator you would like to recognize. Perhaps there is a student in your life with special learning needs.

Requesting a spiritual greetings card is a unique way to let them know of your prayers for them and the importance of the new academic year they are beginning.

Each card announces that a petition is being placed in their name at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, and a Votive Light is burning for their needs. My fellow Vincentians and I will remember them in our daily Mass and prayers.

Simply send me their names and present the cards to your recipients.

Every student has strengths and weaknesses, and even some saints struggled in school. Did you know that Saint Carlo Acutis, the Italian teen canonized last September, also needed extra help at times?

One of his teachers, Sister Monica Ceroni, recalled that “he was certainly not a perfect student.” He would sometimes show up late or forget his homework. She added that religion was the only subject Carlo did well in. His family hired a tutor to help the lad with his homework.

Today, we know that even if Carlo did not excel in school, he did so in holiness—demonstrated in his love for Jesus, Mary, the Mass, and his family and friends.

It is wonderful for young people today to realize that they might have more in common with a saint than they realize!

You may request cards, as well as other religious back-to-school gifts, at our online gift shop, or call us at this number 1-800-264-6279.

You give a gift of priceless value in asking Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom, to watch over those you love along their educational pathway this school year.

Thank you for your devotion to Mary’s mission and your support of the Association of the Miraculous Medal. May God continue to bless your efforts to serve him, and may he draw you ever closer to himself.

Sincerely in Jesus and Mary,

P.S. The Backpack Mary Medal (M080) is our most popular back-to-school gift item! Also available is Blessed Oil (W080). Both items are pictured on the enclosure.