It was in Rome, towards the end of the eighteenth century, one fine evening in May. A child of the poor gathered his companions around him and led them to a statue of Mary, before which a lamp was burning, as is the custom in that holy city. There, these fresh young voices sang the Litany of our Lady. The next day, the little group, followed by other children, again gathered at the feet of the Mother of God. Next came their mothers, to join the little assembly. Soon, other groups were formed, and the devotion rapidly became popular. Holy souls, troubled by the disorderly conduct which always increases and becomes graver at the return of the pleasant springtime, saw in these growing practices the hand of God, and they cooperated with the designs of Providence by approving and promoting this new devotion, as a public and solemn act of reparation. The Month of Mary was founded (1).
“This is the month in which, in the churches and individual homes, the most affectionate and fervent homage of prayers and devotions from the hearts of Christians are raised to Mary. It is also the month in which from his throne descend upon us the most generous and abundant gifts of the Divine Mercy”(2).
In our own times, we Catholics, wanting to be close to her always, offer her special presents in May: pilgrimages, visits to churches dedicated to her, little sacrifices in her honor, periods of study and well-finished work offered up to her, and a more attentive recitation of the rosary (Catholic News Agency).
8 Practical Tips For The Month Of Mary
1. Read bible passages about the Virgin Mary
2. Put up an Image of Mary
3. Pray the Rosary
4. Give someone a Marian gift
5. Evangelize
6. Participate in a Marian procession
7. Perform the Works of Mercy
8. Receive the sacraments
9. Sharing Is Caring
1. Cf. A Carthusian, A Month with Mary, London: Burns and Oates, 1950.
2. Paul VI, The Month of Mary,1967.
More Resources For May, The Month Of Mary
The Seven Sorrows of Mary: Why You Should Know Them And Pray Them
10 Messages From The Virgin Mary That Every Catholic Should Know
Can The Guadalupe Tilma Make An Atheist Convert?! 5 Signs That It’s Possible
National Geographic Names Mary “The Most Powerful Woman In The World”
3 Ways To Use Your Rosary (Hint: It’s Not a Necklace)
