Founding of the MI 1917

As Franciscan friars we are called to respond to those words that Our Lord Jesus Christ proclaimed to St. Francis, "Go and rebuild my Church that you see falling into ruin."  St. Maximilian, a Conventual Franciscan, followed this cue by responding to this call to rebuild the church when he witnessed the spread of godlessness and attack upon the Church of Christ. 

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he gathered with a group of friars to consecrate themselves to the Blessed Mother.  In doing so they united jointly with Her Immaculate Heart, in order that they could battle sin, error and the snares of Satan with the Love and truth of Our Lord Jesus Christ as revealed through his Church.  To proclaim the saving Gospel of Christ and to be instruments of his Kingdom in the hands of Mary is the aim of the Militia of the Immaculata.

A flexible movement of over 4 million people worldwide incorporates the MI consecration in their daily living of the Catholic Faith.  Many people strengthened by this vibrant relationship with Our Lady have deepened their faith and have sought to bring Christ' s Divine Mercy to others, whether through an active apostolate, or just the witness of their daily living. 

For each person, the Marian Consecration means to respond to the gift of Mary as Mother, bestowed to each of us by our Crucified Savior: "Behold Your Mother."  Like the beloved disciple, we are called to take her home in our daily lives, to learn from her example of faith, hope and charity as seen throughout the Scriptures, and to trust in Her Motherly care and intercession as we make our journey to Heaven.  Mother Teresa, who was a member of the MI, had often praised the MI as something beautiful for God.  Following the examples of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe, the saintly nun worked tirelessly serving the poor and needy of Calcutta.

The MI is a pontifical public association, which has the full support and blessing of the Holy See.