John Tranor Story

The Miracle of John Traynor (1923)

John Traynor, a World War I veteran from Liverpool, England, experienced a miraculous cure at Lourdes that was thoroughly investigated and officially recognized by the Church.

Injury and Illness:

During World War I, John Traynor suffered severe injuries in battle. A grenade exploded near him, causing multiple wounds, including paralysis of his right arm and partial paralysis of his legs. He also had a metal plate implanted in his skull due to severe head injuries.

Condition Worsens:

Over time, his condition deteriorated. He suffered from epilepsy and was prone to frequent and violent seizures. Traynor was declared 100% disabled, unable to walk, and dependent on others for basic care.

Journey to Lourdes:

Traynor had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1923, he joined a pilgrimage to Lourdes, although he was in extremely poor health and had to be carried on a stretcher.
Many who accompanied him doubted he would survive the journey.

The HealingWhile at Lourdes:

Traynor was brought to the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary had appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858.
He was bathed in the waters of the miraculous spring, as many pilgrims are. Witnesses later recounted that he felt a sudden surge of warmth and strength.
That evening, while participating in the Eucharistic procession, Traynor unexpectedly stood up from his stretcher, unaided. He was able to walk for the first time in years.
His paralyzed arm regained full movement, and his seizures stopped completely.

Return to Health:

Upon returning to England, John Traynor's doctors were astonished. His previously paralyzed arm and legs were fully functional. His epilepsy and other neurological symptoms had vanished.
Medical examinations could not explain his sudden and complete recovery. His condition had been deemed incurable prior to the pilgrimage.

Church Investigation and Recognition:

The case underwent thorough scrutiny by the Lourdes Medical Bureau, a committee of independent doctors and experts dedicated to investigating claims of miraculous cures.
The investigation confirmed that Traynor's cure was medically inexplicable and instantaneous.
The Church officially recognized his healing as a miracle, crediting the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Aftermath:

John Traynor became a living testimony to the power of faith and prayer. He dedicated the rest of his life to sharing his story and encouraging others to trust in God’s healing power.
He continued to live an active and healthy life, which was a profound contrast to his previous bedridden state.

Significance:

The miracle of John Traynor is one of over 70 officially recognized cures at Lourdes, but thousands more have been reported by pilgrims over the years. His healing is a powerful testament to the hope and faith that Lourdes inspires in people worldwide.