Infant of Prague

Within the hearts of Discalced Carmelites, the Infant of Prague shines as a radiant star. This devotion, woven through centuries, began with a precious gift to the Prague Carmelites in 1628. A damaged statue, miraculously restored, spoke words of peace and promise, cementing its sacred place.

For the Carmelites, this Child King embodies their deepest spiritual longings: a tender intimacy with Christ’s humanity, a call to childlike trust and simplicity, and a recognition of divine majesty veiled in humility. He is the ever-present intercessor, showering blessings upon those who turn to Him with faith. His image, robed and crowned, reminds them that true power resides in the gentle heart of a Child.

The venerable statue of the Infant of Prague boasts a rich and miraculous history, ultimately finding its home and widespread veneration through the Discalced Carmelites.

Tradition holds that the wax-covered wooden statue, depicting the Child Jesus in a kingly posture, originated in Spain, possibly dating back to the 16th century. It is believed to have been brought to Bohemia by a Spanish noblewoman, Maria Manrique de Lara, upon her marriage to Vratislav of Pernštejn.

The statue eventually passed into the possession of her daughter, Princess Polyxena of Lobkowitz. In 1628, a profound act of faith saw Princess Polyxena donate the precious statue to the impoverished Discalced Carmelite friars of the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague. Her words, “I give you what I prize most highly in the world; honor and respect the Child Jesus and you shall never be in want,” proved prophetic as the Carmelites soon experienced improved fortunes.

However, the tumultuous Thirty Years’ War brought hardship. In 1631, Saxon troops plundered Prague, and the statue was desecrated and discarded, its hands broken. For several years, it lay forgotten among rubble.

It was Father Cyril of the Mother of God, a Discalced Carmelite, who rediscovered the damaged statue in 1637. Deeply saddened by its state, he began to pray before it. Tradition recounts that the Infant Jesus Himself spoke to Father Cyril, saying: “Have mercy on me and I will have mercy on you. Give me my arms and I will give you peace. The more you honor me, the more I will bless you.”

Inspired by this divine encounter, Father Cyril worked tirelessly to have the statue repaired. Once restored, the blessings promised began to pour forth. Numerous miracles, healings, and answered prayers were attributed to the intercession of the Infant of Prague, quickly spreading devotion far beyond the monastery walls. The Carmelites became the primary custodians and promoters of this powerful devotion, ensuring its enduring legacy and its place in the hearts of millions worldwide.