What a Perfectly Chosen Name

Chapter 1, titled "Name and Origin".

The Legion of Mary is a society in the Catholic Church which began eighty eight (88) years ago. It precisely began on the 7th of September, 1921,the eve of our Lady's nativity. This society founded by a man called Frank Duff, had a very humble beginning. It started with about 13 people of which were majorly women who met at Myra house,Francis street,Dublin, Ireland at 8pm. The aim of this meeting was to give Our Lady a befitting birthday present. So, around a beautiful altar of Our Lady, these members said the prayers of the Holy Spirit and the rosary to our Lady. They then assigned the work of visitation of hospital to themselves,a sign of their love and devotion to Mary our Mother. A week later, the members returned to give report on how the work was performed. They continued coming to meeting in this manner and this gave rise to this beautiful society.

What is in a name? Perhaps, this question will help in the reflection of the name of the society. The first work ever undertaken by the Legion was visitation of hospital and this hospital was under the care of a group of nun called 'Daughters of Mercy'. This event led to the society first called THE ASSOCIATION OF MERCY. After a while, the name was changed to LEGION OF MARY with the name of the first praesidium as OUR LADY OF MERCY.
Names have a way of affecting a person's whole personality. History has it how great men were successful because they drew strength from the meaning of their names. The Roman Legion from which the Legion of Mary took her name were known for their courage and fighting spirit which gave them victory in any battle they fought. This has tremendously affected the Legion of Mary positively and gained her plenty members all over the world. Little wonder Pope Pius XI said, "The Legion of Mary! What a perfectly chosen name!".