Liturgical creativity and Marian solemnity: The coronation of pilgrimage virgin maries in France (1853-1964)

Abstract

Langlois reflects on the changes of Marian devotional cultures in France through the study of Marian coronations after the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception (1854). He identified over 200 coronations of Virgin statues that took place throughout France for nearly a century. By drawing on such case studies, Langlois analyzes the mass demonstrations that took place during these new ceremonies. "Liturgical Creativity and Marian Solemnity" explains how these ceremonies fulfilled different objectives: reinforce the Vatican’s authority that approved the coronation, endorse the shrine, and find new forms of popular expression.