Blessed James Alberione

Blessed James Alberione’s Marian Spirituality

By Marianne Lorraine Trouvé, FSP

Spirituality can be thought of in two senses: as the way a particular person lives out his or her relationship with God, and also as a spiritual teaching that can be shared with others. Under both these aspects, Fr. Alberione’s spirituality is thoroughly Marian. Throughout his life he had a strong personal devotion to Mary, and he also developed a unique approach to Mary that springs from his apostolic charism.

Alberione’s Personal Devotion to Mary

From his roots, Alberione imbibed a loving devotion to Mary. Shortly after his birth, his mother brought him to the nearby shrine of Our Lady of the Flowers to dedicate him to the Blessed Virgin. This was a common custom of his time, and even until today the people of the area offer thanks to Mary for their newborns, and leave a memento at the shrine. As James grew, his mother often brought him to the shrine with her to pray. He "breathed in" this atmosphere of popular piety that had such a strong Marian character.

As a priest, Alberione would often pray at the various Marian shrines that are so common in Piedmont. In particular, whenever he faced difficulties or important decisions, he brought these things to Mary and counted on her guidance.

The rosary was one of Alberione’s favorite prayers, and he once said that before giving a talk or starting any undertaking, he would pray the rosary and entrust himself to Mary. Alberione had a vital relationship with Mary, which was expressed not only in prayer and devotion, but in practicing the virtues that she showed in her life.

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