The Family-Centered Life

Marian Consecration

Lissa and Alice have begun a preparation for consecration and Meredith and Mary Ellen have joined them. I have too.

Consecration means setting yourself aside for service to God. The Church has always advocated consecrating yourself to Jesus Christ through the Blessed Virgin, the perfect model of discipleship. Marian consecration is a formal act of self-giving that does not stop at Mary, but is Christ-directed. It is really consecration to Jesus.

Since I am already a member of the Militia Immaculata I will be preparing and renewing my consecration in the MI way.

“The more people draw close to this Stewardess of God’s gifts, the more easily they will grow in holiness and work for their neighbor’s growth in holiness.” St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe

What’s the difference?

Montfortian consecration is a very detailed preparation which is primarily focused on one’s personal sanctification. MI consecration is, at its heart, a simple act of the will. Preparation itself is less detailed and there is overall more of an apostolic focus. Ultimately as knights consecrated to Our Lady our mission is to find ways to bring others to her as well.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that those who consecrate using the MI form neglect the personal sanctification aspect or that those who use the Montfortian form neglect the apostolic aspect. Not at all. One form isn’t better than the other, it’s just a different focus or, charism —if you will.

For me, it was a matter of where God led me and what seemed the best fit for my life. MI consecration and the apostolic focus of it has certainly born fruit in my life and I hope and pray it will always do so. The late Pope John Paul II said “Membership in the Militia means complete dedication to the Kingdom of God and to the salvation of souls through Mary Immaculate.” Amen!

If you feel inspired - I hope you’ll join us!

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