By Mia Wugol
MORE than 100 parishioners at Holy Spirit Parish in City Beach consecrated themselves to Jesus through Mary on 25 March.
The consecration was made on the feast of the Annunciation of the Lord after Stations of the Cross.
Parishioners prepared for the consecration with 33 days of spiritual preparation. Though some found it tough and the language difficult, they persevered and gained spiritual benefits from the experience according to City Beach parish priest Fr Don Kettle.
During this time of reparation, parishioners reflected on the writings of St Louis de Montfort; praying and meditating on Scripture to internalise God’s Word and apply it to their daily lives.
St Louis de Montfort (1673-1716) was a French missionary priest and author who was renowned, influencing a number of Popes.
A year before his death, he founded two Religious congregations: the Company of Mary, composed of missionaries and the Sisters of Wisdom, who devoted themselves to hospital work and the instruction of poor girls.
Fr Kettle said it was a “truly wonderful experience as people were touched in a profound way as we gathered together under the protection of our Heavenly Mother as her Children.’’
Some offered their prayers for members of their own families who no longer practise the faith, while others offered prayers for the evangelisation of the parish.
‘’This whole experience has been a great blessing for the parish and families, of spiritual growth and support. Even now, Our Lady is still answering those prayers by interceding for her children,” Fr Kettle said.
He said he would encourage other parishes and individuals to take up the challenge.