St.Louis de Montfort
St. Louis de Montfort, who was born in 1673, is perhaps one of the most relevant saints for the 21st century.
Popes marvelled over Montfortian spirituality.
Pope John Paul II said his life was changed after reading de Montfort.
Pope St. Pius X granted an Apostolic Benediction to those who studied de Montfort’s book, “True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin.”
Pope Pius IX declared that St. Louis de Montfort’s devotion to Mary was the best and most acceptable form of devotion to Our Lady.
Followers of Montfortian spirituality are mounting a campaign to have the Catholic Church declare St. Louis de Montfort a Doctor of the Church.
What is the essence of this saint’s spirituality and how can someone born 338 years ago be relevant in the 21st century?
The answer may lie in de Montfort’s focus on three principles that directly relate to today’s world.
Many of the world’s problems swirl around (1) a lack of wisdom in the world (2) the forgetfullness of Christ’s suffering for mankind and (3) the organized unrelenting attack on the family, marriage and “life” issues.
So, what can we learn from a saint who lived three centuries ago and can be applied to today’s problems?
First of all, de Montfort addresses the issue of the lack of wisdom in the world by calling for a total dedication to Eternal Wisdom, which the saint explains is the supreme science of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Secondly, de Montfort reminds and invites us to join in the Mystery of the Cross and never lose sight of Christ’s sacrifice of Calvary for all mankind.
Thirdly, Louis de Montfort unveils the secret of combatting the unrelenting attacks on the family, marriage and “life” issues by consecrating one’s life with a “true” devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is very difficult and pride-challenging for everyone but especially difficult for men.
St. Louis de Montfort was a strong man’s man who also knew how to use his fists.
One story about de Montfort’s manliness recalls how the saint was attacked by a gang of thugs. When the dust settled, the saint was still on his feet and the thugs were properly dispatched.
In conclusion, St. Louis de Montfort has a powerful spirituality, pretty much unknown and pretty much unpracticed, that can reap potentially incredible benefits and graces on modern Catholics and help us cope with the struggles and chaos of modern life.