The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared eight times to 11-year-old Mariette Beco in the small village of Banneux, identifying herself as 'the Virgin of the Poor' and leading Mariette to a spring.
History
Between January 15 and March 2, 1933, Mariette Beco — an 11-year-old from a poor, non-practicing Catholic family — saw the Blessed Virgin eight times near her family's home. The Virgin led Mariette to a spring and identified herself as 'the Virgin of the Poor.' The apparitions were approved by the Bishop of Liege in 1949.
Messages
The Virgin's messages focused on the poor and suffering: 'I am the Virgin of the Poor.' She instructed Mariette to 'believe in me, and I will believe in you' and said the spring was 'reserved for all nations — to relieve the sick.' She also asked for a small chapel to be built.
Spiritual Significance
Banneux, together with Beauraing, represents a remarkable pair of approved apparitions occurring within months of each other in Belgium during the Great Depression — a time of immense suffering. The Virgin's identification as 'the Virgin of the Poor' speaks directly to the social mission of the Church. The spring at Banneux has been associated with numerous healings.
