PART II
The consecration consists
of a filial relationship of special belonging to Mary.
Its origins coincide, even
if only in embryonic form, with the beginnings of the marian cult in the
Church.
The very ancient prayer “ under
your protection ” (sub tuum presidium) already expresses the trusting
self-donation of the faithful to the blessed Virgin Mary. In every age, the
faithful enamoured of Mary have expressed this singular consecration of themselves
in different ways, modes and forms.
Saint Louis Grignion de
Montfort is considered the prince of those who promoted the practice of
consecration to Mary based on very serious doctrinal principles.
Besides Montfort, we should
recall an innumerable line of other theologians and saints who offered their
doctrinal contribution to explain the unique relationship of the faithful who
consecrates himself to the blessed Virgin Mary.
Priests are encouraged to
promote consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary with special commitment
and pastoral zeal for the spiritual good of the faithful, inspired by the
magisterium of the Church in this matter, and from the actions of the latest
popes, who have repeatedly practiced the consecration of both mankind or individual
countries.
THE TOPICALITY OF CONSECRATION
TO THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY
The medal given by the
blessed Virgin Mary to sister Maria Chiara Scarabelli is bound up to the
consecration made by the Church to her Immaculate Heart as she herself had
asked at Fatima.
The Consecration to the
Immaculate Heart of Mary represents a singular event of grace in the 20th
century.
On 31st October 1942 , Pope
Pius XII consecrated all mankind to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Paul VI
repeated the consecration in 1967 at the end of the Vatican Council II and
renewed it in 1967.
Pope John Paul II renewed
it in communion with all the priests of the Church on 25th March 1984.
This happened, it is good
to say it frankly, in reply to the request of Mary in the apparitions at Fatima.
Consecration does not end
with a formula. By its very nature, it ties for the whole life. Therefore it is
not a practice, but a choice of life.
Consecration to the
Immaculate Heart of Mary meets God's plan. Therefore no wonder that Our Lady
asked for it and wants to bring it to a full accomplishment.