St. Joseph, Model of Consecration to the Immaculata

Intermountain Catholic

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Donna Masek

In his 2020 apostolic letter Patris Corde (With a Father’s Heart), Pope Francis recalled the 150th anniversary of the dedication of St. Joseph as the patron of the Universal Church. To celebrate this historic event, he declared a “Year of St. Joseph” from Dec. 8, 2020 through Dec. 8, 2021. The faithful responded in significant ways in honor of the discreet, faithful and hidden presence of this powerful support and guide.

St. Joseph plays an important role within the Militia of the Immaculata and is considered the perfect model of living the spirituality of St. Maximilian Kolbe, who founded the movement in 1917 to bring souls to Christ through the intercession of Our Lady, whom the saint usually called the Immaculata.

Although it is recognized that St. John was invited by Our Lord to make his consecration at the foot of the Cross, “…. and the disciple took her into his home” (John 19:27), it was St. Joseph who was the first to do so. In a dream, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph and told him, “Do not be afraid of taking Mary into your home” (cfr. Mt 1:20). The faithful invite her into their spiritual homes so that she, who carried the Word made flesh in her immaculate womb, may form him again in them.

 Joseph was spiritually betrothed to the Immaculata and gave himself to her, totally and unconditionally. This self-offering is echoed in the words of consecration:  “…take me with all that I am and have totally to yourself as your possession and property….”

As guardian of the Holy Family, Joseph brought them safely to Bethlehem, Egypt and Nazareth. In living out the act of consecration, individuals are called to bring the presence of Jesus and Mary to others in their daily lives.

 Tradition holds that St. Joseph departed this earth with both Jesus and Mary by his side. Therefore, he is known as the patron of a happy death. The prayer of consecration is lived in life and in eternity, “Please make of me, … of my whole life, death and eternity, whatever most pleases you.” It is with hope that after faithfully completing one’s mission on earth, individuals will be granted a peaceful death and continue their intercession in eternity.

 Surprisingly, Pope Francis proclaimed the Year of St. Joseph to begin and end on Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, instead of the Solemnity of St. Joseph, March 19. The Immaculate Conception is central to the spirituality of St. Maximilian Kolbe, who states in his own self-offering, “Who are you, O Immaculate Conception, and what would you have me do?”

Let us follow the example of St. Joseph in living our consecrations to the Immaculata who was ever obedient to God’s holy will, supported by the prayerful presence of his betrothed spouse.

Daily Renewal Prayer of the Consecration:

Immaculata, I renew my consecration to you for this day and for always so that you may use me for the coming of the Kingdom of Jesus. Amen

Donna Masek is a Volunteer of the Immaculata and represents the Militia of the Immaculata in Utah. Through Immaculata Village meetings, retreats, and other outreaches, the MI serves both the English and Spanish communities. For information, contact Donna at miutah.stmary@gmail.com.