The invaders

were unstoppable, subjugating the people and even impeding the free practice of the Christian faith.

As October began, forces began to come together for one last battle against the invaders. The people prayed long and hard: the saints on earth joining their prayers with those of the saints already in heaven, especially with Mary the mother of Jesus.

On this very day in 1571, in the waters off the Greek city of Navpaktos, the Turkish invaders were decisively defeated in what would be remembered as the Battle of Lepanto. Ever since then, October 7 has been a day of prayer and thanksgiving: known today as the memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary.