|
Devotion to the Blessed Mother is nowhere more organized than
in the Legion of Mary, begun by a Dublin layman in l921 and now known world-wide
as one of the largest lay organizations in the Church.
At Sacred Heart Manoa 24 active members, women and men, plus
89 auxiliary members, are among the parish's most dedicated Catholics, focusing
on personal sanctification and evangelization. Active members vow to say a
Rosary and Legion of Mary prayers daily, to meet weekly for up to 1 1/2 hours
for prayers, petitions and spiritual readings, and to put in an additional two
hours per week going out two-by-two--like the Apostles did--to do good works and
to spread the faith.
Deacon John Suplee, the group's spiritual director, says its
willingness to meet and exceed requirements is impressive.
Also impressed by the Legionaries' unselfish service is a
former parishioner who served with the Army Reserve in Iraq in 2003.
"I am profoundly grateful for the prayers that the Legion
of Mary said for me while I was in Iraq," says Capt. Philip Romanelli.
"To know that people of deep faith and holiness are petitioning God on
one's behalf is both humbling and encouraging--I knew that their prayers were a
manifestation of God's grace."
On March 26, 2006, the day after the Feast of the
Annunciation, the Sacred Heart group hosted 400 active and 200 auxiliary
members from other Delaware County parishes in an "achies", the annual
consecration to Mary.
New members--both active and the auxiliary members who promise
prayers but do not commit to apostolic work--are always welcomed.
|
