33-Day Preparation begins : Sunday, April 28, 2024

Consecration Date: Friday, May 31, 2024

St. Louis de Montfort (1673 – 1716) had a profound and deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and wrote extensively on the virtues of Our Lady, what true devotion to her consists of, and how the faithful need to turn to her as the way to her Son, Jesus Christ. He recommends that the faithful formally consecrate themselves to the Blessed Mother. For this end he developed a specific 33-day program consisting of various prayers and readings to help the faithful detach themselves from the world and bond themselves more closely with Christ through the example and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 

St. Louis de Montfort stands in a long tradition of saints completely devoted to Our Lady, and his work has been influential in the lives of many other saints, one of the most famous among them is Pope St. John Paul II, who took his papal motto, “Totus Tuus” (Totally Yours) from de Montfort.

This “Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary” consists of an initial 12-day preparation followed by a period of three consecutive weeks, each week focusing on a different theme. It is recommended that the consecration be done on a major feast day of Our Lady, meaning that the preparation would begin 33 days prior. That is, after the 33-day program is completed, the formal Act of Consecration is made on a Marian feast day.

Once you make the consecration, it is for life. It can then be renewed annually. Keep in mind that this is a formal consecration to Our Lady, like a vow. Through this 33-day program you are giving Mary ALL of yourself – your heart, your mind, and your soul –  in order to bring you closer and help you be more faithful to her Son, Jesus Christ. Also, that she may use you as a holy instrument in her battle with Satan – i.e. this    consecration allows her the free reign in your life to make you holy (as she assists you, through the Holy Spirit, to conform to her virtues) and to use your prayers, sacrifices, and sufferings for the greater glory of God.

“The Immaculata alone has from God the promise of victory over Satan. She seeks souls that will consecrate themselves entirely to her, that will become in her hands forceful instruments for the defeat of Satan and the spread of God’s kingdom.”

– St. Maximilian Kolbe

The next preparation begins on Sunday, April 28, for all who wish to make, or renew, their Consecration on Friday, May 31, the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“Preparation for Total Consecration” books are available in the parish office for $10. 

For questions about making your Total Consecration, or to register to make (or renew) your Total Consecration, contact the Parish Office: (586) 726-6911