They were told they would be on camera, and - yep - that couldn't be avoided.
They were told they were going to be inspired, and they certainly were.
In what could be an historic moment in promoting devotion to the Blessed Mother, about 25 guests gave the better part of two days on Jan. 13-14, to serve as audience members for a film production that will undoubtedly set "hearts afire."
Father Michael Gaitley, MIC, was filmed giving six talks on Marian consecration based on his new book, 33 Days to Morning Glory: A Do-It-Yourself Retreat in Preparation for Marian Consecration. The event transformed the living room of the Marian's monastery in Stockbridge, Mass., into a studio with a set, cameras, and lighting. The filming was in preparation for the launch of the Marians' new small-group, parish-based program that includes consecration to Jesus through Mary. The talks are being made into DVDs that the Marians will offer as an integral aspect of the small group program - part of the Marians' new evangelization effort called Hearts Afire: Parish-based Programs for the New Evangelization (HAPP).
"Consecration to Jesus through Mary is an incredible, powerful tool toward sainthood," Fr. Michael said as the taping began. "It's such a great tool for holiness, but few have heard about it."
The filming was a festive affair thanks to Fr. Michael's powerful talks, which toggled between deep spiritual insights and captivating - often humorous - personal witness.
Food, refreshments, and comic relief were provided between filming by Megan Carlotta, Kelly Wahlquist, Sarah Chichester, and Valerie Laurizio - organizers of the filming. Kelly, Sarah and Valerie are members of the Association of Marian Helpers' Evangelization Department, which is overseen by Fr. Michael.
"I can sum up my experience in assisting in this HAPP production with three words," said Valerie, "Mercy + Mary = Joy! It was an amazing experience and I pray that the groups that watch these talks are as moved and inspired as I am."
A Deeper Path
In a break in the filming on Saturday, audience member Juan F. Cabrera of New Jersey said he had known very little about the history and spiritual benefits of Marian consecration before he was invited to attend the taping.
"I'm learning about the consecration at a time when I was hoping for another path ... deeper into my Catholicism," he said. "This will be invaluable."
He added, "Hearing the talks, I can't see myself not consecrating myself to Mary. I mean, how could you not?"
We interviewed some of the participants.
Read More and watch interviews here...
