Saint Louismarie Grignion De Montfort

Biography

Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, also known as Saint Louis-Marie Grignion or Saint Louis de Montfort, was born on January 31, 1673, in Montfort-La-Cane, Brittany, France. He came from a poor background but was intellectually curious from a young age. After completing his initial education, he went on to study in Paris, where he deepened his knowledge of theology and spirituality. In 1700, Montfort was ordained as a priest. During his seminary years, he developed a strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, which became the central theme of his life and ministry. Montfort delved into the writings of Church Fathers, Doctors, and Saints, focusing on their teachings about Mary. He found great joy in studying and sharing this knowledge, sparking a lifelong dedication to promoting authentic Marian devotion. Inspired by Mary, Montfort founded the Daughters of Divine Wisdom, a religious institute of women committed to the care of the destitute. He also established a brother organization called the Brothers of Saint Gabriel. Through these works, he began actively preaching the Rosary and spreading the message of Mary's importance in the spiritual life. Montfort's preaching against the errors of Jansenism, a theological movement that emphasized human depravity and predestination, was forceful and effective. However, it also led to his expulsion from several dioceses in France. Undeterred, he traveled to Rome, where Pope Clement XI granted him the title and authority of Missionary Apostolic. This allowed Montfort to continue his apostolic work in France, spreading devotion to Mary through his powerful preaching. As a member of the Third Order of Saint Dominic, Saint Louis became one of the greatest apostles of the Rosary in his time. His renowned book, "The Secret of the Rosary," which was divinely inspired, remains influential today. The method of reciting the Rosary that originated from Saint Louis' preaching is the most widely practiced method. In 1715, Montfort founded the Company of Mary or Montfort Missionaries. This group of missionaries dedicated themselves to spreading the teachings of Mary and her role in the spiritual life. Montfort's most significant contribution to the Church and the world came through his promotion of Total Consecration to the Blessed Virgin. He advocated for complete surrender and consecration to Mary, considering it a means of renewing one's baptismal promises. This profound spirituality has been embraced by millions, including Pope John Paul II, who consecrated himself as well as every place he visited as pope. Montfort's book, "True Devotion to Mary," became another important work in his legacy. It continues to inspire many to consecrate themselves to Mary and her mission of defeating the Devil and his Antichrist. According to Montfort's prophecy in the book, the army of souls consecrated to Mary will be her instrument in triumphing over evil. Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort died on April 28, 1716, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Sovre, France, of natural causes. His cause for declaration as a Doctor of the Church is currently being pursued. He was venerated on September 29, 1869, with a decree of heroic virtues by Pope Blessed Pius IX. Pope Leo XIII beatified Montfort on January 22, 1888, and Pope Pius XII canonized him on July 20, 1947. Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort is recognized as the patron saint of preachers, the Brothers of Saint Gabriel, the Company of Mary, and the Daughters of Divine Wisdom. His life and spirituality continue to inspire countless individuals in their devotion to Mary and the Rosary.