Pope Francis Invites Catholics to Renew Consecration to Mary’s Immaculate Heart

Saturday, March 25th marks the anniversary of Pope Francis’ 2022 consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Blessed Virgin Mary, asking for peace between both these countries, and the world at large. To honor this year’s celebration of the Annunciation, Pope Francis calls for Catholics around the world to renew the Marian Consecration through their prayers and parishes. 

“Saturday will mark the solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord,” Pope Francis said during a general audience on March 22nd. “Our thoughts turn to March 25 last year when, in union with all the bishops of the world, we consecrated the Church and humanity, especially Russia and Ukraine, to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.” 

The Vatican defines a consecration to Mary as an overt recognition of the singular role of Mary in the mystery of Christ and the Church. Further elaborating on the benefits of consecration, Pope Francis said that those who consecrate themselves to Mary will have the fear and pain in their hearts soothed as they abandon themselves to her.