Here at San Damiano Friary, we celebrate and remember the life and witness of the Blessed Virgin Mary throughout the month of May. Although we continually remember Our Lady and her "Yes" to God throughout the year, the month of May, in particular, affords us a time where Christians recall Mary's unique contribution to our salvation history.
According to one website containing a short history of this particular Marian devotion:
In medieval times, winter ended at the start of May because it was considered a time of new growth and beginnings. During this time, the “Tricesimum” (“30-Day Devotion to Mary” or “Lady Month”) period began, when special devotions to the Mother of God started in May. It spread from Italy all around the world.
Many churches already dedicate a particular chapel or niche for an icon or statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Here at the friary, we have a statue of Our Lady of Walsingham that rests on our front porch.
In a short ceremony after Mass on Sunday, May 2, 2021, we placed both a crown on Mary's head and roses and flowers at her feet.
We hope that throughout this special month, visitors and passersby will pause and offer a prayer to our Blessed Lady, imploring her intercession.
While on the Cross, Christ gave his Blessed Mother to the disciple whom he loved (John 19:26-27). Some theologians have interpreted this act as Christ giving us a share in calling Mary as our mother as well.
During the month of May, let us take heed of our Lord's words, asking of our Mother Mary all that her Son, Our Lord and Savior, desires for us!
Our voices ascending,
In harmony blending,
Oh! Thus may our hearts turn
Dear Mother, to thee;
Oh! Thus shall we prove thee
How truly we love thee,
How dark without Mary
Life's journey would be.
O Mary! we crown thee with blossoms today,
Queen of the Angels, Queen of the May,
O Mary! we crown thee with blossoms today,
Queen of the Angels, Queen of the May.
Brother James Nathaniel can be reached at jamesnathanielssf@gmail.com