Following the great Jubilee Year of Mercy in 2016, the Legion of Mary will assemble as a body to renew its dedication to Mary in order to receive strength and blessing for yet another year's battle with the forces of evil at its central function the Acies.

The gathering will be held on Saturday, March 25 at 1 p.m., at Our Lady of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna, where the legionaries will express devotion, union and dependence on Mary, Mother of God.

The Acies is the annual function of the legion, so it is important that all members attend. During this gathering, members will step forward and repeat vocally, before a large statue of the Immaculate Conception, "I am all yours, my queen, my mother, and all that I have is yours." The homilist will be Father Romulus Rosolowski, OFM Conv. Legion prayers will be recited and a holy benediction of the Blessed Sacrament will be included.

The essential idea of the legion, upon which all else is built, is that of working in union and in dependence on Mary. The Acies is the solemn expression of that union, with a renewal of individual and collective loyalty. Legion members at numerous parishes are actively involved in many evangelization activities in the diocese, including visits to the homebound, hospitals and nursing homes, and prison ministries.

The Acies also offers a social benefit to renew old acquaintances and friendships as well as to enjoy the proceedings.

All members are invited to attend and participate in this event. Guests and other interested parties are also welcome and can find out how legion membership can enhance their spiritual growth. For all who wish to attend, there is ample parking at the basilica and refreshments will follow.