Brother Matthew reflects on the mystery of the Trinity, showing how true faith honors God by trusting and adoring the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
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A Glimpse of Total Consecration to Mary
What is Total Consecration?
Total Consecration to the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, as introduced by Saint Louis-Marie de Montfort, is a sacred practice that spans over 33 days, with the initial 12 days designated as “preparation days.” The culmination of this consecration aligns with a chosen Marian feast, typically the one that holds the devotee’s deepest devotion and affinity.
Total Consecration Duration: Number of Days Explained
To carry out the Consecration to Jesus through Mary, one must choose the date of one of the main Marian celebrations on the Marian Calendar and count back 33 days from that date, taking it as the starting point for the consecration.
These 33 days are divided into twelve preliminary days, during which the soul seeks to empty itself of the spirit of the world, which is entirely opposed to the spirit of Jesus Christ. Following these days, there will be three weeks of prayer and meditation, during which the soul will seek a better knowledge of itself (first week), of Mary (second week), and of Jesus Christ (third week).
First Part: Emptying Yourself of the Spirit of the World.
Days 1 to 12
Examine your conscience, pray, practice the renunciation of your own will; mortification, purity of heart. This purity is the indispensable condition to contemplate God in heaven, to see Him on earth, and to know Him in the light of faith.
The first part of the preparation should be devoted to emptying oneself of the spirit of the world, which is contrary to the spirit of Jesus Christ. The spirit of the world essentially consists of denying God’s supreme dominion, a denial that is manifested in the practice of sin and disobedience; thus, it is entirely opposed to the spirit of Jesus Christ, which is also that of Mary.
Second Part: Obtain Knowledge of Yourself
Days 13 to 19
Prayers, examinations, reflections, acts of renunciation of our own will, of repentance for our sins, and self-contempt, all performed at the feet of Mary, from whom we expect the light to know ourselves. With her, we can measure the abyss of our miseries without despairing. We must use all our pious actions to ask for a knowledge of ourselves and contrition for our sins, and we must do this in a spirit of piety.
Third Part: Obtain Knowledge of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Days 20 to 26
Acts of love, pious affections towards the Most Holy Virgin, imitation of her virtues, especially her profound humility, her lively faith, her blind obedience, her continuous mental prayer, her mortification in all things, her incomparable purity, her ardent charity, her heroic patience, her angelic sweetness, and her divine wisdom: as Saint Louis-Marie de Montfort says, the ten principal virtues of the Most Holy Virgin.
We must unite ourselves to Jesus through Mary; this is the characteristic of our devotion; therefore, Saint Louis-Marie de Montfort asks us to employ ourselves in acquiring a knowledge of the Most Holy Virgin. Mary is our sovereign and our mediatrix, our Mother and our Mistress.
Let us strive, therefore, to know the effects of this royalty, this mediation, and this maternity, as well as the grandeur and prerogatives that are the foundation or consequences thereof. Our Most Holy Mother is also perfect – a mold in which we are molded to make our intentions and dispositions like hers. This will not be achieved without studying the interior life of Mary, including her virtues, sentiments, actions, her participation in the mysteries of Jesus Christ, and her union with Him.
Fourth Part: Obtain Knowledge of Jesus Christ
Days 27 to 33
Acts of love for God, thanksgiving for the blessings of Jesus, contrition, and resolution
During this period, we shall devote ourselves to studying Jesus Christ.
What must we study in Jesus Christ?
First: The God-Man, His grace and glory, then His rights to absolute dominion over us; since, after having renounced Satan and the world, we have taken Jesus Christ for our Lord.
Second: His interior life, the virtues and acts of His Sacred Heart; His association with Mary in the mysteries of the Annunciation and Incarnation; during His infancy and hidden life, at His baptism and His life in public…
At the end of the last week, you will confess and receive communion with the intention of consecrating yourself to Jesus Christ as a slave of love through Mary. After communion, you will recite the formula of consecration. It would be good to offer some tribute to Jesus Christ and the Virgin on that day, either as a penance for any infidelity to the vows of baptism or as a declaration of complete dependence on the dominion of Jesus and Mary. This tribute can be according to each person’s devotion and capacity.
Consecration to Mary dates
| Consecration Date | Preparation Start | Marian Feast Day |
|---|---|---|
January 1st |
November 29th |
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God |
January 24th |
December 22nd |
Our Lady of Peace |
February 2nd |
December 31st |
Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ |
February 11th |
January 9th |
Our Lady of Lourdes |
March 25th |
February 21st |
Feast of the Annunciation |
May 13th |
April 10th |
Our Lady of Fatima |
July 16th |
June 13th |
Our Lady of Mount Carmel |
August 15th |
July 13th |
Assumption of Mary |
September 8th |
August 6th |
The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary |
September 15th |
August 13th |
Our Lady of Sorrows |
The Benefits of Embracing Total Consecration to Mary
True Devotion to Mary offers a myriad of spiritual benefits, providing believers with a deeper connection to Jesus, an increased sense of inner peace, and a profound understanding of Mary’s role as the Mother of God.
Overcoming Sin with Mary’s Intercession: One of the remarkable benefits of True Devotion to Mary is her unwavering support in helping us overcome sin. When we find ourselves tempted, Mary becomes our advocate, interceding on our behalf with her Son. Through her guidance, we gain the strength to resist temptation and lead lives of moral integrity.
Growing in Virtue through Mary’s Example: Mary stands as a timeless model of virtue, guiding us towards greater goodness and holiness. As we embrace True Devotion to her, we draw inspiration from her life and her prayers, and in turn, cultivate virtues such as faith, hope, and charity. Her maternal intercession aids us on the path of spiritual growth.
Enhancing Prayer Effectiveness through Mary’s Intercession: As a powerful intercessor, Mary facilitates a deeper and more effective prayer life. When we turn to her in prayer, she carries our heartfelt supplications to her Son, who answers according to divine wisdom. Our prayers gain potency through her divine connection, strengthening our bond with the Almighty.
Finding Peace and Serenity through Mary’s Love: In today’s tumultuous world, Mary emerges as a source of solace, bestowing upon us a profound sense of peace and serenity. By seeking her maternal comfort and guidance, we find respite from life’s chaos and confusion. Her nurturing presence calms our fears and grants us the courage to face life’s challenges.
Nurturing a Closer Relationship with God: For those yearning to deepen their relationship with God, embracing True Devotion to Mary holds significant promise. As a loving and compassionate mother, Mary is always by our side, extending her assistance and showering us with blessings. Through her, we draw nearer to the divine, experiencing the richness of God’s love and grace.
Prayer of Saint Louis Marie Grignion de Monfort to Jesus Christ
O most loving Jesus, deign to let me pour forth my gratitude before Thee, for the grace Thou hast bestowed upon me in giving me to Thy holy Mother through the devotion of Holy Bondage, that she may be my advocate in the presence of Thy majesty and my support in my extreme misery.
Living a true Life of Devotion
Living a life of devotion after consecrating yourself to Jesus through Mary is a beautiful and enriching journey. Here are some practical steps to help you deepen your devotion and grow spiritually:
Prayer: Establish a daily prayer routine. Spend time in quiet contemplation, expressing your love, gratitude, and intentions to Jesus and Mary. Regularly pray the Rosary, meditating on the mysteries of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Also, attend Mass and receive the Eucharist as often as possible.
Reading Scripture and Spiritual Books: Immerse yourself in the teachings of the Bible and other spiritual books that focus on the life and teachings of Jesus and the messages of Mary. This will help you understand their wisdom and apply it to your life. We also recommend our Magazine From the Housetops which is filled with nourishing catholic Content adapted to our times.
Marian Consecration Renewal: Renew your consecration regularly, such as annually or on special feast days of Mary. Use these occasions to recommit yourself to her guidance and ask for her intercession in your journey.
Participate in the Sacraments: Regularly receive the sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and the Eucharist. These sacraments strengthen your spiritual life and help you grow in holiness.
Acts of Charity and Service: Follow the example of Jesus and Mary by performing acts of charity and service to others. Offer your time and resources to help those in need, and practice the virtues of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.
Spiritual Direction: Consider seeking guidance from a spiritual director or a priest. They can provide insights, encouragement, and support in your spiritual journey.
Eucharistic Adoration: Spend time in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, where Jesus is truly present. This intimate encounter deepens your relationship with Him.
Devotions and Pilgrimages: Engage in various devotions and consider going on pilgrimages to places of spiritual significance. For example, visiting Marian shrines can enhance your devotion to Mary.
In conclusion, fostering a true devotion to Mary provides believers with a path to spiritual enrichment, drawing them closer to Jesus and enhancing their lives with profound peace and divine guidance. Her eternal love and intercession are a wellspring of blessings, nurturing our souls and leading us towards a profound union with God.
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