On the anniversary of the Apparitions of Lourdes, February 11, 2018, 57 new Knights were enrolled in the Militia Immaculatae (M.I.). Taking place at St. Anne’s Church in Livonia, mission chapel of the Detroit area, it was the first public enrollment to happen here.

The ceremony of enrollment took place after each Sunday Mass. During the sermon at the Masses, Fr. Kimball compared Juan Diego, the one who saw Our Lady at Guadalupe, to the Knight of the Immaculata. Juan Diego is said to have stayed near the site of the apparition his whole life, telling the story of the apparitions over and over again to the curious Indians who came in a constant stream to learn about the “Little Mother” who had appeared to them. The dedication of this poor, simple Indian was a great factor in the millions of pagan Indians who converted in the years following the apparitions. Just so must the Knight work. Without needing a great amount of skill or learning, but merely by a living a life consecrated to the Immaculata, one person can do wonders for God in her hands.

During the ceremony, Father explained how everything changes when we consecrate ourselves to her. The past and the discouragement it may cause us – whether it’s because of past misfortunes or the sins we have committed  — need discourage us no longer, since it is all hers. The present, with its challenges, its responsibiliites, and its burdens, need weigh down on us no longer, since it is all hers. The future, with its worries because of our weakness, the uncertainty that comes because of our fear of failing, need bring anxiety no longer, since it is all hers. If the gift of ourselves is complete, she bears all in her hands, and gives whatever strength is needed to bear the burdens of life.

Let us pray that the new members of the M.I. — and all of us — remain faithful to our Mother, the Virgin most Faithful!