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Have you ever made a Marian consecration? This traditional Catholic practice has had a recent resurgence. It means giving your entire self to Jesus through the hands of his mother.
French priest St. Louis de Montfort popularized the concept at the turn of the 18th century. Several popes have recommended the practice and consecrated themselves. Today, there are a number of books, websites, and other resources to support Catholics in making this consecration.
It’s a beautiful and deeply meaningful practice, but can seem a little unattainable for children and parents of little ones. The daily devotions and prayers involved may be beyond a child’s understanding. Parents can lose steam in completing the consecration when their kids are uninterested.
Fortunately, there are some helpful new books that address this exact issue. Three recent books offer a program for Marian consecration designed specifically for children. These are a valuable resource for Catholic parents, teachers, directors of religious education, and anyone who assists in the spiritual formation of children.
1Marian Consecration For Children: Bringing Mary To Life In Young Hearts And Minds
Divided into 34 days, Marian Consecration for Children includes a short meditation for each day and accompanying discussion questions. Each day concludes with prayers and a “Did You Know?” feature that delivers interesting facts.
Author Dr. Carrie Gress weaves in tales of saints, kings, queens, knights, and princesses as a way to teach children about virtue, courage, and their spiritual mother who loves them. She also draws valuable spiritual lessons from contemporary stories such as The Chronicles of Narnia, The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Winnie the Pooh, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and many other fables and fairy tales.
This book provides an engaging way for children to participate in this centuries-old practice, so that Mary can take their hands and lead them to Christ. It’s a thrilling way to help children grow closer to Jesus through his beloved mother.
2Marian Consecration for Families with Young Children
Marian Consecration for Families with Young Children features a traditional 33-day preparation for consecration. Author Colleen Pressprich wrote it to use with her own young children, then felt inspired to share her work with other families.
This book is written to help children ages 3-7 understand and grow in faith and Marian devotion. Each day includes an image of Mary, a short reflection, and discussion questions to inspire conversation. Luminous illustrations will captivate children’s imagination and hold their attention.
3Child Consecration: To Jesus through Mary
This Consecration program weaves the principal components of the St. Louis de Montfort Consecration with St. Therese of Lisieux’s spirituality, which is characterized by simplicity, confidence, and trust.
Author Blythe Kaufman is the founder of the Children’s Rosary Prayer Group Movement, and this book captures her mission of helping children learn to love Our Lady. The book is filled with sweet illustrations created by children.
