Duties of Officers
The officers of a Praesidium hold positions of trust and responsibility, entrusted with preserving the spirit, order, and effectiveness of the Legion of Mary. Their role is not merely administrative, but deeply spiritual. Each officer serves as a guardian of the Legion’s discipline, unity, and fidelity to its mission under the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the authority of the Church.
Officers ensure that the Praesidium functions properly, that meetings are conducted reverently and efficiently, and that each member is supported in their apostolic work and spiritual growth. They lead not by authority alone, but by example, humility, and faithful service.
The Spiritual Director
The Spiritual Director is appointed by the parish priest or ecclesiastical authority and represents the Church within the Praesidium. He provides spiritual guidance, doctrinal clarity, and pastoral oversight.
His duties include:
• Ensuring the Legion’s work remains faithful to Catholic teaching and discipline
• Providing spiritual counsel and encouragement to members
• Supervising apostolic activities to ensure they are appropriate and fruitful
• Assisting in maintaining the Legion’s authentic spirit and devotion
• Offering corrections or guidance when necessary
The Spiritual Director safeguards the Legion’s unity with the Church and ensures its mission remains fully Catholic in spirit and practice.
The President
The President holds primary responsibility for the leadership and orderly functioning of the Praesidium. This role requires maturity, prudence, charity, and a deep devotion to Our Lady.
The President’s duties include:
• Presiding over the weekly Praesidium meeting
• Ensuring meetings follow the approved Legion order and structure
• Assigning apostolic work to members and ensuring it is properly carried out
• Encouraging member participation, faithfulness, and spiritual growth
• Maintaining unity, discipline, and fidelity to the Legion Handbook
• Representing the Praesidium at Curia meetings and higher Legion gatherings
• Fostering a spirit of charity, reverence, and zeal within the Praesidium
The President serves as the visible leader of the Praesidium, ensuring its mission is carried forward faithfully.
The Vice President
The Vice President assists the President and assumes the President’s duties when necessary. This role supports continuity and stability within the Praesidium.
The Vice President’s duties include:
• Assisting the President in leadership and organization
• Presiding over meetings in the absence of the President
• Supporting members in their apostolic work
• Helping maintain order, discipline, and Legion spirit
• Preparing to assume greater responsibility if called upon
The Vice President serves as a dependable support to the President and the Praesidium.
The Secretary
The Secretary is responsible for maintaining the official records of the Praesidium. Accuracy, care, and confidentiality are essential.
The Secretary’s duties include:
• Recording attendance at weekly meetings
• Documenting assignments and member reports
• Maintaining official Praesidium records
• Handling correspondence when necessary
• Preparing reports required by higher Legion councils
The Secretary ensures continuity, accountability, and proper communication within the Legion structure.
The Treasurer
The Treasurer is responsible for the proper care and management of the Praesidium’s funds. This role requires honesty, diligence, and transparency.
The Treasurer’s duties include:
• Collecting and safeguarding Praesidium funds
• Maintaining accurate financial records
• Providing regular financial reports at meetings
• Ensuring proper use of funds in accordance with Legion purposes
• Contributing to higher Legion councils as required
The Treasurer ensures that the material needs of the Legion’s apostolate are responsibly managed.