On October 15, 2023, the Militia of the Immaculata (M.I.) group in Assisi organized a pilgrimage to celebrate the 106th anniversary of the foundation of the M.I. by St. Maximilian M. Kolbe.
Forty group members visited the St. Maximilian M. Kolbe Friary in Rome where the M.I. was founded. The friary also preserves the room where in 1917, seven friars committed themselves to the salvation of souls through total consecration to the Immaculate Conception.
During their visit to the M.I. International Center, the group was welcomed by Friar Gilson Miguel NUNES, the Delegate of the Minister General for the Assistance of the Militia of the Immaculata and the Secretary, Anna, who explained the wonderful history of the Center. At the end of the visit, the participants celebrated Mass with the Spiritual Assistant of the Assisi group, Friar Tadeusz ŚWIĄTKOWSKI, presiding.
In the afternoon, the Militia members visited the Basilica of Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, where on January 20, 1842, the Virgin Mary appeared to Alphonse RATISBONNE, who was jewish, leading to his conversion to the Catholic faith. The basilica is also where Father Kolbe celebrated his first Mass. Finally, the Militia members prayed the Rosary for the conversion of sinners.
Friar Tadeusz ŚWIĄTKOWSKI, M.I. Spiritual Assistant
