The Collect for the Memorial of St. Louis de Montfort, Priest:
“O God, who willed to direct the steps of the Priest Saint Louis along the way of salvation and of the love of Christ, in the company of the Blessed Virgin, grant us, by his example, that, meditating on the mysteries of your love, we may strive tirelessly for the building up of your Church. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.”
Reflection
St. Louis de Montfort lived from 1673-1716 in France. He was known as a powerful preacher and an ardent promoter of devotion to Mary. So, our prayer recalls his walking the “way of salvation… in the company of Mary” before invoking his help. Just as with the rosary, our prayer recognizes that we are and should be meditating on the God’s love as shown in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Drawing on all of this, the request is simple: that we never stop building up the Church.
So, for your daily contribution to the Church’s collection of prayer,
Reflect on you devotion to Mary. Do you ask for her help often? When you pray the rosary, do you meditate on the mysteries or just say the words? Ask her help now and ask St. Louis de Montfort to help you to recognize the gift we have in Marian devotion. Pray for the grace to stay close to Mary for the sake of staying close to her son. Then spiritually unite that prayer to all the Masses throughout the world today. That way, when the priest says “Let us pray,” you can be a part of that “us” even if you don’t get to attend Mass.
Extra Option: St. Louis de Montfort has lots of great writings about Mary and devotion to her. He created the practice of “Holy Slavery to Jesus through Mary,” also known as “Total Consecration.” Look into his writing and some of his recommended devotions. See if maybe these could enrich your spiritual life. The picture to the right is a link to a recommended book.
