Spiritual Classics

True Devotion to MarySt. Louis de Montfort

Background

• True Devotion singled out by Pope St. John Paul II in encyclical, Redemptoris Mater (On the Mother of the Redeemer)

• Consecration – an “effective means for Christians to live out their baptismal commitments.”

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Background

• Goals of de Montfort:

• “Mary has been imperfectly known until now. This is why Jesus is not known.”

• Mary much more necessary to people to attain heaven.

• Amend thinking that “Marian devotion is merely something optional in spiritual life.”

Practicing Devotion,3 key Reasons

• The “Principle of Purification” and Mary’s intermediary role.

• Purify good works.

• Embellish acts of charity

• Cause them to be acceptable to the Lord

Practicing Devotion,3 key Reasons

• Counteract the sin of pride.

• Overcome temptation that we – on our own – can give God glory He deserves.

• “Only through Holy Spirit is Christ formed in Mary’s body,

• Only through Mary does Holy Spirit form the members of the Mystical Body.”

Practicing Devotion,3 key Reasons

• Mary is the Mother of the human life of Jesus,

• Mary is the mother of our “spiritual life.”

• We are not “self-starters” in the life of faith.

A simplified version

• From True Devotion to Mary – St. Louis de Montfort, Msgr. Vincent Walsh (2005, Key of David Publications)

• Effects:• Obtain extraordinary graces• Treasure of wisdom (powerful weapon)• Affect your language (transform hearts)• Rid scruples and fear.

practices

1. Consecration.

2. “The Little Crown:” 1. 3 “Our Fathers” (12 glories/12 stars).

2. 12 “Hail Marys” (Trinity).

3. “The Little Chains.”

4. Devotion to the Incarnation (March 25).

5. The “Hail Mary.”

6. The “Magnificat.”

7. Fleeing the world.

Spiritual Classics

True Devotion to MarySt. Louis de Montfort