CHARLOTTE — Across the Diocese of Charlotte, parishes and schools honor Our Blessed Mother in a special way with May Crownings. This tradition of the Church dates back to the 16th century and continues to be a joyful celebration among Catholics during the month of May.
Besides the fact that she is the Mother of Christ the King, Mary herself shows us the way to experience the joys of heaven. When Jesus preached about the Kingdom of God, He stressed the importance of humility, and Mary is our example.
A hallmark of Catholicism is love for Jesus’ mother, Mary. Catholics love her, honor her and venerate her image in thanksgiving for her “yes” to God, for her role as the Theotokos (“God-bearer”) and as a powerful intercessor for all of God’s children.
Mary is also our mother, given to us by Jesus as He was dying upon the cross: “When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple there whom He loved, He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son.’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his home” (Jn 19:26, 27). This tender scene speaks to us of the depth of the love that inspires, informs and transforms all human love – the Love Incarnate who gives us His Mother.
Mary’s obedience and unwavering faith in God also exemplify the perfect Christian disciple. For if we remain close to Our Blessed Mother, she will keep us close to her Son.
Read why May is devoted to Mary.
— Photos by Lisa M. Geraci and provided
