LEGION OF MARY
A Pious Association
Secretary
Mr. Sasiraj
Motto
“Ad Jesum per Mariam”
To Jesus through Mary
The Legion of Mary was founded on 7 September 1921 in Dublin, Ireland, by the Servant of God Frank Duff, under the title “Association of Our Lady of Mercy.” It received official ecclesiastical approval from Pope Pius XI in 1928, affirming its place as a vital lay apostolic movement within the Church.
The primary mission of the Legion is to glorify God through the sanctification of its members. This noble calling is lived out through two essential pillars:
- Prayer
- Apostolic Service
Both are rooted in a deep union with Christ and a filial devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Over the years, the Legion of Mary has grown into a vibrant global movement, now present in more than 170 countries, with lakhs of dedicated members actively participating in the evangelising mission of the Church.
Legion of Mary in India
In India, the Legion of Mary was established on 2 February 1931 at Teynampet, Chennai, by Sr. McCann Smith, marking the beginning of a fruitful apostolate in the country.
Legion of Mary in the Diocese of Sivagangai
Within the Diocese of Sivagangai, the Legion of Mary began its journey on 1 March 1987 with the establishment of the first Presidium under the guidance of the Spiritual Director, Rev. Fr. Sengol.
- The Curia was inaugurated on 10 July 1988 by His Excellency Bishop Edward Francis
- The Comitium was established on 2 June 1994, strengthening the organisational structure and mission of the Legion in the diocese
At present, the Diocese is blessed with:
- 160 Presidiums
- 20 Curiae
- Over 2,500 active Legionaries
These members continue to serve with unwavering dedication, faith, and missionary zeal.
Centenary Celebration
The Centenary Celebration of the Legion of Mary in the Diocese was joyfully commemorated on 26 October 2024, marking a historic milestone of grace, growth, and committed service.
Spiritual Life and Mission
United in spirit and purpose, the Legion members and office bearers carry out their apostolate with discipline, sincerity, and zeal by:
- Deepening devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Fostering a life of prayer
- Reaching out through compassionate service
- Contributing meaningfully to the life and mission of the Church and society
Hail Mary!