The Legion

This book is about various reflections on the Legion of Mary. The Legion of Mary handbook entitled Legio Mariae is an unchanging classic that has been used by countless devoted Catholic men and women for their spiritual formation. This book can be read over and over, and one still feels as if its revelations are new and enriching. Praying and working members have been guided by its tenets since its founding in 1921.

Father Francis G. Lendacky, is an example of one who has been involved with the Legion of Mary as a spiritual director throughout his priesthood that began in 1961 in Philadelphia. He even participated before that as a seminarian by attending praesidium meetings. In his wonderful book, Insights of a Legion of Mary Priest, Fr. Lendacky states that the Legion: "has been a stabilizing influence in the weekly regimen of my life. I have found the legionaries to be my most persevering and consistent collaborators in evangelization. The legion has extended the effect of Christ's priesthood by imitating the way Christ employed His disciples."

The Legion is a way of life that brings a group together for spiritual growth, fellowship, and personal fulfillment through helping others and serving the needs of the Parish, as prioritized by the pastor. It can be the Parish's prayer and works powerhouse if used properly, the centerpiece for outreach and parish support. Its influence on its members is profound, as they receive more in return than they give, yet the sacrifice offered can be considerable.

As one past president suffering late-stage Parkinson's remarked from her hospital bed, "I was President of the Legion of Mary once, and it was the busiest time of my life, and I don't know how I did it, but I loved it!" That pretty much sums up what most people gratefully feel during their time with the Legion of Mary. They never regret it and it is also comforting to know that the Legion prays daily for its deceased members.