In 1815, in gratitude for the miracle of America's victory over the British in the Battle of New Orleans, the Ursulines, along with Bishop Louis Du Bourg, made a promise to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving each year on the feast day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, January 8.

In 1895, the statue, gilded in gold, was crowned by Decree of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIII; and in 1928, the Holy See approved and confirmed the naming of Our Lady of Prompt Succor as the Principal Patroness of the City of New Orleans and of the State of Louisiana.

Standing in the central niche over the main altar on State Street, she welcomes all who come to honor her, to thank her for her intercession, and to pray for her help and protection, not only from global wars and devastating storms but, also, in overcoming greater enemies...poverty, illness, ignorance, racism, and violence.