Mindprints

MINDPRINTS

An artifact is an object recovered by a human being, typically an item of cultural or historical interest. A mindprint,* however, has a life, a story, and a vitality of its own. It leads one to trace the path of a life, turning attention on the human influence.

Mindprints should not be forgotten, sparking new realizations, and compelling one to reflect on the mind that once shaped it. Here are a few mindprints from 170 years of the Vincentians in Germantown.

*Term coined by Henry David Thoreau

COMMEMORATIVE MEDALS

These medals were minted in celebration of Fr. Skelly’s 35th and 50th ordination anniversaries.

FR. SKELLY BIBLE

Judging from the ragged pages, Fr. Joseph Skelly, CM, founder of the Central Association of the Miraculous Medal, regularly opened his bible for spiritual guidance and reflection.

ST. JOAN OF ARC STATUE

A fixture on the desk of Fr. Skelly.

MEDAL MOLDS

In the early years when the Miraculous Medals were minted, several molds were created for varying sizes.

1 ST ISSUE OF THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL MAGAZINE

Fr. Skelly founded, wrote, and produced what has now become the Miraculous Medal Message magazine.

EARLY NOVENA BOOKLETS AND MILITARY MISSAL

Young Pvt. Charles C. Glunz carried these with him into battle during World War II. He kept them his entire life.

SACRED SWATCH

Located in The Shrine by the altar, a swatch taken from the original upholstery on which the Blessed Mother first appeared to St. Catherine Labouré. It is framed alongside an affidavit and placed on a replica of the chair on which the Blessed Mother sat.