Junior Praesidium Leader
Legion of Mary
Leading a Junior Praesidium is an important and formative apostolic work entrusted to adult Legionaries in the Legion of Mary, focused on guiding and nurturing the spiritual growth of younger members. It is an extension of the Legion’s mission to form apostles, helping children and adolescents to develop a living faith, a love for Our Lady, and a sense of responsibility for the Church’s mission.
In this work, the adult Legionary serves as a leader, mentor, and role model for junior members. They organize and conduct the weekly Praesidium meeting in accordance with the Legion’s handbook, adapting it as needed to suit the children’s age and capacity while preserving its essential structure. Through prayer, spiritual reading, discussion, and reporting on assigned works, juniors are gradually introduced to the discipline and spirit of the Legion.
A central aspect of this role is formation. The adult Legionary teaches the fundamentals of the Catholic faith, fosters devotion—especially to the Blessed Virgin Mary—and helps juniors understand the importance of apostolic work. They encourage participation, build confidence, and gently guide each member to grow in responsibility and charity.
The adult Legionary also assigns and supervises suitable works for the juniors, such as simple acts of service, prayer outreach, or small evangelization efforts appropriate to their age. Care is taken to ensure that these works are meaningful yet not overwhelming, helping the juniors experience the joy of serving others.
Patience, consistency, and genuine care are essential to this apostolate. The adult leader must be attentive to each child’s needs and abilities, fostering a supportive, respectful environment. Their example—marked by faithfulness, kindness, and dedication—often leaves a lasting impact on young members.
United in prayer and guided by the spirit of Mary, running a Junior Praesidium is deeply rewarding. It helps raise a new generation of committed Catholics, forming young hearts in faith and service and strengthening the future of the Legion and the Church.
