For centuries, the Catholic Church has set aside a special month to reflect on the faith and obedience of Mary of Nazareth, the Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. While it has not always been in May, the Church settled on this Spring month due to the numerous Marian feast days celebrated this time of year.
The May Crowning, became popular in the 19th century, after a series of Marian apparitions in the 18th century. The devotion acknowledges Mary’s importance in God’s plan of salvation. During the celebration, statues or images of Mary are literally “crowned”, usually with flower crowns, to indicate her Queenship. The celebration usually takes place on May 1 or on Mother’s Day, but any day in May is suitable.
May Crownings take place at local parishes with large statues, but you can also have one at home. Pre-select a family member who will place the crown on the image or statue of Mary.
Here are the 10 easy steps:
One additional modification can include a reading from a Bible passage where Mary is highlighted. This is a way to actively include older children and teens, by having them prepare and do the reading before or after your family Rosary. Some suggestions include: Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:39-56 (the source of the Magnificat prayer), Luke 11:27-28, or Acts 1:13-14.
May is certainly a special time to contemplate the beautiful qualities of Our Lady that can inspire us all to persevere in our Faith and to follow Jesus.