Totally Yours 1.4

Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary

Total consecration is a profound recommitment to our baptismal promises, done in union with Mary, and should be approached with utmost sincerity. As stated by Saint Pope John Paul II, this Marian devotion was a pivotal moment in his life, becoming an integral part of his spiritual journey.

St. Louis de Montfort teaches that Jesus entered the world through the Blessed Virgin Mary, and it is through her that he should reign in the world. Mary's presence has been largely unrecognized, which contributes to a lack of knowledge and understanding of Jesus Christ. It is clear, then, that the knowledge and kingdom of Jesus Christ can only be fully realized through the knowledge and reign of Mary. She, who gave him to the world, will establish his kingdom in the world.

St. Louis de Montfort recommends spending at least twelve days detaching oneself from the worldly spirit that opposes the spirit of Jesus. Then, for a period of three weeks, immersing oneself in the spirit of Jesus through devotion to the blessed Virgin. The Total Consecration is akin to a 33-day retreat, culminating in the Consecration on the 34th day. The retreat is divided into four parts:

• Part 1 - 12 days: Detaching from the spirit of the world
• Part 2 - 7 days: Reflecting on self-knowledge
• Part 3 - 7 days: Deepening knowledge and devotion to Our Lady
• Part 4 - 7 days: Growing in knowledge of Jesus

The Consecration itself usually takes place on a Marian feast day.

Those seeking to elevate their prayer life are encouraged to embrace this Total Consecration retreat, experiencing the joy of having a heavenly Mother who lovingly draws us closer to her beloved Son, Jesus. This retreat, when approached earnestly, brings believers one step closer to the Mother and, in turn, one step closer to Jesus.

The Totally Yours app offers the opportunity to sign up for the retreat, selecting one of the recommended start dates or choosing a personalized date. Each part of the retreat includes daily reflections and specific prayers. The app also provides a journal feature for users to record meaningful insights from each day's reflection. Additionally, the daily learning tab allows users to identify up to three key areas they wish to focus on throughout the day.

During the 33-day retreat, participants are invited to light a candle as an offering for personal intentions or special causes. These candles burn for nine days, allowing users to share the lit candle and their prayers with others they are interceding for. This act serves as a comforting reminder that they are being prayed for. Furthermore, the lit candle is displayed on the world candles view, where users can receive prayers from others or pray for someone else—exemplifying our Christian unity as the body of Christ.

Just as our Holy Father recently consecrated the entire world to Mary, we invite you to join in this blessed act by consecrating yourself and your family to her. Surely, you and your family will be abundantly blessed.