Consecration to Jesus Through Mary: A New Beginning

On the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, Margaret Dwyer Hogan vows to spend the coming weeks finishing what she started last year.

I have to admit that I have struggled with the consecration to Jesus through Mary. So many times, I have started it, only to get distracted and not finish it.  

Over this past year, through books, conversations, or podcasts I was listening to, the invitation to explore a consecration was put in my path. I don’t know why this is hard for me. 

Finally, in November, I picked up a booklet — which was literally in the staff kitchen area at the seat I chose that day - written by St. Louis de Montfort on the consecration. Of course, I had heard of him — and of this. I am surrounded by sisters in Christ who have successfully completed the 33-day consecration to Jesus through Mary.  

I started strong, with the book at my bedside and I was so good about reading it, praying on it, even reciting the Litany of Loreto each night at the end (optional, but I was “all in” so of course I had to do it).  

Then one day, I put it in my backpack. Thinking I might have some space and time at a staff retreat, I packed it to take with me. But like a teenage boy, I simply forgot. And there the book sat. In my backpack. I had made it to week three: day 17.  

Intentionality: a big part of our journey

I intentionally go to Mass whenever I can during the week. I intentionally pray a Rosary in the morning before my day begins. Part of me gets irritated that there is always so much more I should be doing to be the person God created me to be on this earth. There are only so many hours in a day! 

Last week I was listening to a podcast, and the speaker said, “We are heavenly beings trapped in earthly bodies.” I know it sounds a bit corny, but this really hit home. My soul is longing to be fed. My human appetites or habits of TV binging or reading for pleasure are blocking me from holy habits that will enrich my spiritual life — and my family's spiritual life as well.  

Not perfect, but complete

I long to be a better wife, mother, sister in Christ. The Blessed Mother wants to help me, I know! The Litany of Loreto echos in my heart, and I am deciding right now, in this moment, that I will finally finish the consecration. It will not be perfect with this interruption from start to finish — but she knows my heart. And my weak human nature.

This time, finishing it will be a new beginning unto itself. Mary, Mother of the Church, Mother of us all, help us all draw closer to you in this new year! TOTUS TUUS!  

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Copyright 2025 Margaret Dwyer Hogan
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