“She is that woman who rejoiced in the presence of God, who treasured everything in her heart, and who let herself be pierced by the sword. Mary is the saint among the saints, blessed above all others. She teaches us the way of holiness and she walks ever at our side. She does not let us remain fallen and at times she takes us into her arms without judging us.”
—Pope Francis, Gaudete et Exsultate, no. 176
We can also honor Mary by praying the Rosary. During this time of prayer we can reflect on the special times in the lives of Mary and Jesus through the Joyful Mysteries, Sorrowful Mysteries, Glorious Mysteries, and the Mysteries of Light. You can pray on your own or join in as a community before daily morning Mass.
Catholic Women’s League Rosary Service to honor our departed in the community will be on Wednesday May 8th at 7:00 pm. Please join us.
We invite you to bring in flowers to decorate our prayer alcove especially during the Month of May. You can bring them into the church or by the Family Center to surround Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
- Daisy can be called by the name of Mary’s Star
- Lily of the Valley is also known as Mary’s Tears.
- Lady’s mantle sometimes called Mary’s Mantle
- Clematis is known as Virgin’s Bower
- Lavender goes by Mary’s Drying Plant
- Marigold is called Mary’s gold
- Columbine is also known as Our Lady’s Shoes
There are many instances of miracles attributed to Mary throughout the world. One such is the Miracle of Fátima, a series of events reported to have occurred miraculously on 13 October 1917, attended by a large crowd who had gathered in Fátima, Portugal, in response to a prophecy made by three shepherd children, Lúcia Santos and Francisco and Jacinta Marto. The prophecy was that the Virgin Mary would appear and perform miracles on that date. (Source:Wikipedia) We have the movie “Fatima” available through our Parish Library to borrow if you would like to view it this month in honor of Mary.
A Catholic ritual, “May Crowning”, occurs across the world in the month of May. It recognizes Mary as Queen of heaven and earth. There has been a correlation between Mary and the month of May since medieval times. May is considered the season of the beginning of new life. “May Crowning” marks a new spiritual season.
“Note that we do not view Mary as a goddess, nor do we worship Mary; she is honored or venerated as the mother of Christ, the most important woman in our Catholic faith. Mary is offered through pilgrimages, sacrifices, visits to church, and other customs as our Mother. She gave birth to that Body, making her our own mother; thus giving birth to us spiritually”. (source: orlandocatholicschoolswebsite)
