33 Days to Morning Glory
by Michael E. Gaitley
Fr. Michael Gaitley, a priest of the Marians of the Immaculate Conception, designed this book as a do-it-yourself retreat. The goal is Marian consecration, entrusting yourself to Jesus through Mary. The program runs 33 days, with a short reading each day, and parishes often run it in small groups.
Each week you keep company with one great figure of Marian devotion: St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Teresa of Calcutta and St. John Paul II. Their insights come simply and warmly, in daily reflections that build on one another. At the end comes a consecration prayer, traditionally made on a Marian feast. Gaitley writes conversationally, with no stiffness.
It suits inquirers who have come to love Mary or want to understand Catholic devotion to her, neophytes after Easter, and parish groups looking for a shared practice. If Mary is still a hurdle, try Pitre's Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary first. Ask your OCIA team about timing.
Key Takeaways
- What Marian consecration means: going to Jesus through Mary.
- Insights from de Montfort, Kolbe, Teresa of Calcutta and John Paul II.
- A short daily reading for 33 days.
- A consecration prayer to close the retreat.
It's a do-it-yourself retreat that introduces Mary through several saints.
