The Company of Mary (Also known as the Montfort Missionaries) is an international religious congregation in the Roman Catholic Church dedicated to the establishment of the Kingdom of God under the Patronage of Marythe Mother of Jesus.

It was founded at the beginning of the 18th Century by St. Louis-Marie de Montfort.

Montfort Missionaries are present in around 30 countries worldwide.

Society of Montfort Missionaries consists of the following groups that were founded by St. LouisMarie de Montfort for different missions:

1.   Approximately 1000 Priests – Their Mission is to evangelize.

2.   Brothers of St. Gabriel – Their mission is to run schools.

3. Daughters of Wisdom –  Their mission is to run Hospitals.

4. Lay Associates which he referred to as “The Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts”. Their mission is to do Apostolic Mission work by supporting the Company of Mary.

Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary, as described by St. Louis de Montfort, is a profound and comprehensive spiritual journey rooted in Catholic tradition. It’s a method of growing in holiness and drawing closer to Jesus Christ by completely entrusting oneself to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Meaning of Total Consecration

At its core, Total Consecration means giving oneself entirely to Jesus through Mary, surrendering all that one is and has – body, soul, possessions, merits, virtues, and good actions – to Mary’s care and disposal, so that she may present it perfectly to Jesus.

Here’s a breakdown of what that entails:

Total Giving: 

It’s not a partial offering, but a complete and irrevocable gift of oneself. This includes past, present, and future actions, merits, and even the right to dispose of them.

Through Mary: 

St. Louis de Montfort emphasizes that since Jesus came to us through Mary (by the Incarnation), we should also go to Him through her. Mary, being the creature most perfectly united to God’s will, is seen as the safest, easiest, shortest, and most perfect means of achieving union with Jesus. She purifies our offerings and presents them to her Son in the most pleasing way.

To Jesus: 

The ultimate goal of this consecration is always Jesus Christ. Mary is the path, not the destination. By entrusting ourselves to her, we allow her to form us more perfectly in the image of her Son, to help us renounce the spirit of the world, and to acquire the spirit of Jesus.

Renewal of Baptismal Promises: 

In essence, it’s a living out and perfect renewal of the promises made at baptism, where we initially committed ourselves to Christ.

The preparation for this consecration typically involves a 33-day period of spiritual readings, prayers, and meditations, often divided into stages focusing on shedding the spirit of the world, self-knowledge, knowledge of Mary, and finally, knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Importance of Total Consecration

The importance of Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary is manifold:

Surest Path to Jesus: 

St. Louis de Montfort asserts that Mary is the “sure means, the direct and immaculate way to Jesus and the perfect guide to him.” Because of her unique relationship with God and her perfect obedience to His will, she is uniquely equipped to lead souls to her Son.

Increased Holiness:

By entrusting oneself to Mary, one opens oneself to her maternal guidance and formation. She, as the “Mother of Divine Grace,” helps to cultivate virtues, overcome sin, and grow in holiness more rapidly and effectively. She molds us into true disciples of Christ.

Perfecting Our Actions:

Our human efforts, even good ones, are often imperfect and mixed with self-interest. By offering them through Mary, she purifies, beautifies, and perfects them, making them more pleasing and meritorious in the eyes of God.

Protection from the Devil and the World: 

The consecration serves as a powerful shield against the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil. By being “slaves of Mary,” we are under her powerful protection and guidance, making it harder for evil to gain a foothold.

Deeper Understanding of the Cross: 

Many who undertake this consecration experience a deeper understanding and appreciation of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice, as Mary stood faithfully at the foot of the Cross.

Apostolic Fruitfulness:

 St. Louis de Montfort believed that those who truly live out this consecration become instruments for the “reign of Jesus Christ” in the world, bringing about spiritual renewal and drawing others to the Gospel.

Imitation of Jesus: 

Just as Jesus perfectly submitted Himself to Mary during His earthly life, we too can imitate Him by placing ourselves under her maternal care.

Pope John Paul II’s Witness: 

St. John Paul II famously adopted the motto “Totus Tuus” (“Totally Yours”), taken from de Montfort’s consecration, highlighting its profound personal and spiritual impact. He credited this devotion with being a “decisive turning point” in his life.

In summary, Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary is a radical and loving act of self-giving that acknowledges Mary’s indispensable role in God’s plan of salvation. It’s a pathway to profound spiritual growth, deeper union with Christ, and effective participation in His mission.

St. Louis de Montfort (1673-1716) was a French Catholic priest and confessor renowned for his exceptional devotion to the Virgin Mary and his profound influence on Mariology.   

Background:
Born Louis Grignion in Montfort, Brittany, he later adopted the name “Mary” at his confirmation, becoming Louis-Marie de Montfort. Even in his youth, he displayed remarkable spiritual depth. Inspired by missionary accounts, he pursued priesthood, walking to Paris to study at the Seminary of Saint-Sulpice, embracing poverty by giving away his belongings to beggars. Ordained in 1700, his life became dedicated to the poor and spreading devotion to the Blessed Virgin.   

Teaching:
St. Louis de Montfort’s teachings are deeply Christocentric, emphasizing that true devotion to Mary leads to a more profound union with Jesus Christ.

His core teachings include: 

Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary:
This practice involves a complete offering of oneself to Mary, allowing her to guide and form individuals in the likeness of Christ. He detailed this extensively in his classic work, True Devotion to Mary.

The Centrality of the Incarnation: For Montfort, the Incarnation of the Word is the pivotal event, with Mary playing an indispensable role as the one through whom Jesus came into the world.

The Importance of the Rosary:
He passionately promoted the Rosary as a powerful means of prayer and meditation on the mysteries of Christ’s life, as outlined in The Secret of the Rosary.   

“God Alone”: 
This was his motto, reflecting his total focus on God and his desire to lead others to Him through Mary.   

Love for the Poor: His ministry was marked by a deep compassion for the marginalized, and he founded religious orders dedicated to serving them. 

Sainthood: 
Despite facing opposition and misunderstandings during his lifetime, St. Louis de Montfort’s holiness was recognized after his death. Miracles were attributed to his intercession, and he was beatified in 1888 and canonized by Pope Pius XII in 1947.   

Legacy and Influence in the Contemporary World:
St. Louis de Montfort’s legacy continues to be significant.

Influence on Popes: His writings profoundly impacted several popes, including Pope St. Pius X, Pope Pius XII, and especially St. John Paul II, whose papal motto “Totus Tuus” (“Totally Yours”) was inspired by Montfort’s teachings on Marian consecration.  

Development of Mariology: 
He is considered a key figure in the development of Mariology, providing profound theological insights into the Virgin Mary’s role in salvation history.   

Spiritual Movements and Communities: 
He founded the Company of Mary (Montfort Fathers) and the Daughters of Wisdom, religious congregations that continue his mission of evangelization, education, and service to the poor. Numerous lay movements and individuals worldwide draw inspiration from his spirituality.   

Renewed Interest in Marian Devotion: In a world that often overlooks the spiritual, St. Louis de Montfort’s emphasis on a deep, personal relationship with Mary as a path to Christ resonates with many seeking a closer connection to their faith. His works continue to be widely read and practiced, guiding countless individuals in their spiritual journey.   

Candidate for Doctor of the Church: 
Due to the depth and impact of his theological contributions, St. Louis de Montfort is a candidate to be declared a Doctor of the Church.   

In essence, St. Louis de Montfort’s life and teachings offer a timeless path to holiness through a profound relationship with Mary, guiding believers to a deeper love for Jesus Christ and a commitment to serving others. His influence remains vibrant, inspiring individuals and the Church in the contemporary world.  

Montfortian Lay Associates imitate our founder’s ideal which is “God Alone”. This was his goal in life. We hope to accomplish this by living a faith-culture through personal encounter with God, and in the process develop the capacity to love one another and celebrate differences.

Knowing, loving and deepening our faith in Jesus the Wisdom Incarnate through his holy mother Mary.

The charism of Montfortians is based on the work of St. Louis Marie Grignion de Montfort and is characterized by several aspects, including:

1) Union with God: Montfortians seek to unite with God through “Jesus Christ living in us”.

2) Mary’s role: Mary is considered an essential part of Montfortian spirituality, and is seen as a means to attain union with God.

3) Love for the poor: Montfortians are known for their love for the poor and oppressed.

4) Trust in Divine Providence: Montfortians have a joyful trust in Divine Providence.

5) Stress on the Holy Spirit: Montfortians place a strong emphasis on the Holy Spirit.

6) Contemplation and action: Montfortians live a deeply contemplative-active life.

7) Pure intentions: Montfortians are inspired to purify their intentions, and to act for the glory of God.

8) Understanding Jesus as Wisdom: Montfortians understand Jesus Christ as the “Eternal and Incarnate Wisdom of God”.

9) Joy in the Cross: Montfortians believe that the Cross can be a source of joy for those who willingly accept it.

Montfortian spirituality is a Catholic practice that emphasizes union with God through Jesus Christ. It is based on the teachings of Saint Louis Marie de Montfort.

Key aspects of Montfortian spirituality

Total consecration: Montfortian spirituality calls for a total consecration to Jesus Christ through Mary. This practice is also known as “Holy Slavery” or “True Devotion”.

Mary’s role: Mary is considered an essential part of Montfortian spirituality. Montfort believed that Mary is the means to union with God.

Jesus as the “Eternal and Incarnate Wisdom of God”: Montfort believed that Jesus Christ is the “Eternal and Incarnate Wisdom of God”. He expressed this idea in his writing The Love of Eternal Wisdom.

God alone: Montfort believed that God is the absolute value and the source of meaning in the universe. His motto was “God Alone”.

Baptismal core: Montfortian spirituality is based on the idea that baptism into Christ is a lived-out affirmation of who we are.

Love for the poor and oppressed: Montfort was known for his love for the poor and oppressed.

Trust in Divine Providence: Montfort was known for his joyful trust in Divine Providence.

Montfort missionaries in Africa
The Montfort Missionaries, officially known as the Company of Mary (SMM), are a Catholic missionary religious congregation founded by Saint Louis Marie de Montfort in France in 1705. Their mission is to reveal the mystery of salvation, helping people deepen their baptismal commitment and establish the Kingdom of God under the patronage of Mary.

History in Africa:
The Montfort Missionaries first arrived in Africa in 1901, specifically in Malawi (then Nyasaland). They were invited by the Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers) to assist in the evangelization efforts in the southern region of the country.
Initially, the Montfort Missionaries worked under the jurisdiction of the Vicar Apostolic of Nyasa, who was a Missionary…
The Montfort Missionaries, officially known as the Company of Mary (SMM), have a significant administrative presence in Africa, organized primarily into two main delegations: the General Delegation of English-speaking Africa and the General Delegation of French-speaking Africa.

General Delegation of English-speaking Africa:
This delegation was officially established in 2007 and comprises the English-speaking countries where the Montfort Missionaries operate. These countries currently include:

Malawi:
Malawi holds historical significance as the first successful mission territory for the Montfort Missionaries in Africa, with their arrival dating back to 1901. Today, it forms a central part of this delegation. The Italian Province of the Montfort Missionaries also maintains a Provincial Delegation specifically responsible for the Diocese of Mangochi within Malawi.
Uganda: The Company of Mary has a presence in Mbarara, where they run a pastoral center.

Kenya:
Nairobi hosts a Scholasticate, which serves as a seminary for English-speaking African and Asian aspirants to the Congregation.

Zambia:
The Italian Provincial Delegation in Malawi also oversees a small mission in Zambia.

The administrative center for the General Delegation of English-speaking Africa is located in Limbe, Malawi.

General Delegation of French-speaking Africa:
This delegation includes the French-speaking countries where the Montfort Missionaries are active:

Democratic Republic of Congo:
The Montfort Missionaries have a long history in the Congo, with the Belgian Province playing a significant role, later supported by Dutch confreres. Currently, they have a postulancy in Kisangani for Congolese aspirants, and Congolese members are involved in parish and other ministries.

Other Notable Administrative Structures:

Madagascar:
While having a long history with Montfort missions, Madagascar today functions as a Vice-Province within the Company of Mary. It has a significant number of Malagasy priests, brothers, and students.
East Africa (Tanzania and Kenya) and Rwanda and Burundi:

These regions were previously under separate administrative entities (District of East Africa and Sector of Kigali). However, they have since been amalgamated into a new Province of East Africa for the Montfort Brothers of St. Gabriel (a separate but related part of the Montfortian family).

General Administration:
Overall administration for the Montfort Missionaries in Africa is also overseen by the Superior General and the General Council of the Company of Mary, based internationally. They make appointments, approve new initiatives, and ensure the overall direction and unity of the Montfortian mission across the continent. The General Council organizes training programs for formators in Africa, bringing together representatives from the English-speaking, French-speaking, and Madagascar entities.

The Montfortian administration in Africa reflects the growth and indigenization of the Church, with an increasing number of African members taking on leadership roles within the delegations and provinces. The focus is on building local churches, forming local clergy and religious, and addressing the social and spiritual needs of the communities they serve through various ministries like parishes, schools, health centers, and media initiatives.

Heads of delegations

https://www.montfortian.info/smmmembers/generalate–rome-.html