Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on the Feast of the Annunciation, Friday, March 25.
 
What is a consecration and why do it?  Consecration is an act by which a person or thing is separated or “set apart” from secular or profane use and dedicated to the sacred by prayers, rites, and ceremonies.  When one makes an act of consecration, it is ultimately made to God with the understanding that is a commitment to respond faithfully to God’s grace at work in our lives.  Pope Francis, responding to a request, primarily, from Ukrainian bishops for an act of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary is declaring that we bring the world back to God, especially Russia and Ukraine.  
 
The Holy Father has stated that this “gesture of the universal Church” will invoke an end to the violence and suffering of the people. In his letter to bishops the Pope has asked for them to join him in this act of consecration.  He is grieved by the “immense suffering” that this war is inflicting on the innocent people of Ukraine.  This war is exacting a terrible toll on the “sorely tired people” and is threatening world peace.”  
 
Therefore, Most Reverend Wm. Michael Mulvey, STL, DD, Bishop of Corpus Christi in solidarity with Pope Francis and his brother priests and bishops will join Pope Francis in this act of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This consecration will take place tomorrow, Friday, March 25 at 11 a.m. at Corpus Christi Cathedral simultaneously with Pope Francis at 5 p.m. local Rome time. 

Everyone who is able can attend in person is invited to attend.  If you are not able to attend in person, the Consecration will be available on the Diocese of Corpus Christi Facebook page and Corpus Christi Cathedral Facebook page and the Diocese YouTube Channel.

Here is the full prayer Pope Francis will recite for the consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.