1910s - Antique French Catholic Prayer Card - Notre-Dame de Montligeon - Virgin Mary Jesus Purgatory Souls - Religious Ephemera

The reverse side of this unique card provides detailed insights into the 'Œuvre Expiatoire pour l'Archiconfrérie La Délivrance des Âmes Délaissées du Purgatoire' (Expiatory Work for the Archconfraternity of the Deliverance of Abandoned Souls in Purgatory). It includes the statutes, outlining the association's mission, the number of masses offered weekly for the souls in Purgatory, and the system of contributions. Notably, it mentions that by 1907, the Work had facilitated the celebration of 270,000 masses, highlighting its significant reach and impact. The statutes were approved by Bishop Claude of Séez on September 29, 1898, with the card providing information for inquiries to Mgr Paul Buguet at Chapelle-Montligeon, Orne.

This historical artifact serves as a tangible link to a profound spiritual tradition focused on intercessory prayer for the departed. The card is in good condition for its age, showing minor wear consistent with its vintage, preserving the integrity of its beautiful devotional imagery and significant historical text. It's a testament to the enduring faith and charitable works of the Montligeon shrine.