M
MariaChristi
Guest
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Even before I read the above quote in Pope Francis’ Lenten Message for 2016, I had it in my mind and heart to begin during Lent, a series of threads on the 33 Days’ Preparation for Consecration to Jesus through Mary culminating with the Act of Consecration on March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation. This year, March 25 falls on Good Friday and so the liturgical feast will not be celebrated until April 4. I still want to re-consecrate myself when I receive Jesus in Holy Communion on Good Friday and pray my Act of Total Consecration then.
I’ve marked my calendar to begin the 33 day journey on Feb. 21, the second Sunday of Lent, ending on Mar. 24 so the Act of Consecration is prayed on March 25. Each time I’ve followed the outline given by St. Louis de Montfort: 12 preliminary days ridding oneself of the spirit of the world, followed by 3 weeks - 1) seeking knowledge of one’s own spirit ( true self-knowledge, which is humility, being essential) then 2) seeking knowledge of Mary’s spirit which is the spirit of Chrst and finally, 3) seeking knowledge of Jesus Christ – I find this is the same method of growing through the stages of the spiritual life taught by saints for centuries. Each time I make this journey I learn more, and am blessed by it.
I hope you will consider this as part of your Lenten journey too. St. Louis de Montfort calls the Total Consecration we make to Jesus through Mary, a perfect renewal of our Baptism. How true it is that our Baptism calls us to “ongoing conversion” and Lent is – in Pope Francis’ words – “so favourable a time for conversion!” If you have any questions, I’ll be happy to attempt answers. If you have never read St. Louis De Montfort’s small book, True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, you can read it online HERE or purchase a copy HERE